Chapter 4 4.Enemies

Ava's POV

"The Blue River Clan and the Shadow Clan are two distinct wolf tribes, each with their own unique characteristics and ways of life," Daddy had said one of my childhood nights as he tucked me into bed. He had made it a part of my nightly ritual as a young girl.

"The Blue River Clan is known for its isolation and our desire to maintain a peaceful existence far away from other wolf clans. We live a solitary existence deep within the forest, avoiding contact with the outside world as much as possible."

He'd stroke my hair carefully. "The Shadow Clan, on the other hand, is known for their exploration and adventure. They roam far and wide, seeking out new territory and discovering new challenges. They are skilled warriors and known for their bravery and fearlessness."

"The leaders of the Blue River Clan and the Shadow Clan have been sworn enemies for generations," he would sit on the bed, next to me, caressing my hair softly. "You must know these things my daughter. It's important to know our traditions and hoping this nocturnal routine helps you not to forget it."

I had nodded, listening attentively, and for that, he would always reward me with a tender peck on my forehead then wish me "Goodnight, sweetheart" and I'll be left to sleep.

On another night, Daddy would begin again, warning me: "Please dear, stay away from the Shadow Clan, I beg you. They can be aggressive and their unpredictable ways make them untrustworthy and dangerous. I can't lose you to them dear. Stay as far away for them as you can."

"Stay away especially from the alpha of the Shadow Clan. His name is William and is greatly despised by the elders of our Clan, dear. He is popular within the clan for his bad conduct, according to rumour."

"Daddy, do you know what William looks like so I can stay away from him," I had innocently asked.

Daddy had only smiled in response then continued, "the Shadow Clan Alpha founded a motorcycle club called Club Casablanca, and the thought of wolves riding motorcycles leaves the elders of the Blue River Clan feeling uneasy."

"They must be really bad Daddy," I would then reply, lying on my bed.

"Yes, my love. They sure are. Respectable wolves like us shouldn't have anything to do with them. Do you know, that motorcycle club is a sign of the Shadow Clan's lack of respect for the ways of nature. It's a direct and defiant challenge to our own traditions and values."

I'd ask him, "Is that why we should always stay away from them Daddy?"

And he would reply, "Yes dear. The elders of the Blue River Clan have often warned us and other members to stay away from the them as they are a threat to our way of life and a symbol of everything that is wrong with the wolf world."

Even Mia who barely agreed with whatever she was told had frequently told me: "The Shadow Clan's way of life is completely opposite to that of the Blue River Clan. They are known for their different lifestyle, constantly on the move, seeking out new challenges and adventures."

"Ava dear," Daddy had told me another night. "Even their relationships are chaotic and often short-lived, with wolfmen coming and going on a whim. Yet, despite their unpredictable nature, the Shadow Clan is a strong force, with many members displaying impressive skills and abilities."

"At least they are not completely useless to the wolf community," I had added as Daddy would always reply to my childish comments with a smile.

He'd continue, "they have been known to take on jobs at sea, transporting equipment and goods while enjoying the thrill of the journey.

"The Blue River Clan, on the other hand, is a tight-knit community, with strict rules and traditions. We value stability and security, and often look down on the Shadow Clan's lifestyle as reckless and dangerous."

I would then reply to daddy one of my childish thoughts and he would give me a goodnight kiss and help me with my blanket.

"I wonder if the man I had a one-night stand with could be a wolf from the Shadow Clan," I told Mia.

It had been a few days after we had our talk about mates and sex.

"Really?" She looked at me, surprised.

"I remember his physique and perfect skin. Those characteristics associate with his life at sea, and now I'm worried. What if he's a wolf from the Shadow Clan?"

Mia picked up a herb from the garden by my room while I just knelt, too worried to join her. "Though I'm very afraid, I can't find myself able to shake off the attraction I have to him. I'm drawn to his adventurous spirit and his confidence. The way he demanded me as his mate, without fear of the consequences."

Mia was still quietly gathering herbs.

"Are you listening Mia?"

"Ava." She looked up. "You really need to calm down, you are only assuming. Nothing is confirmed yet."

She smiled and rested a hand on my shoulder. "Just relax."

I sighed. "It's just that, I don't want to disobey my father's teachings. But I also do not want to let go of the connection I felt with William."

I turned to my confidant. "I'm so confused and uncertain. I'm not sure what to do if my attraction to William eventually endangers both my clan and my own safety. How do I stay safe without letting go of the excitement and thrill that spending another night with him could bring?"

Mia just rolled her eyes. "Ava, you're thinking way too much. You know what, let's take a break for a while. Let's talk for a while about your concerns."

The two of us sat down on a bench to chat. I started expressing my thoughts to her, mentioning the strange and unexpected interaction I had with William. I told Mia that he even called me his "mate."

"Ava, I must say, I am impressed with how you have handled this matter so far. You're really brave for being this open to having a relationship with him." Mia said sarcastically, clear excitement in her voice.

"Mia, someone could hear you," I whispered as I gestured for her to lower her voice.

"Oh." She then reduced her voice. "Sorry. You know my voice increases when I get excited."

"It's alright."

As we continued our conversation, the sound of a knock at the door startled the both of us. I cautiously left to open the door only to find my father standing outside.

"Good day Daddy," I greeted with a slight bow. Mia did same even though my father could barely see her.

"Ava, where have you been? I didn't see you at festival and since then you've been out of sight. I was looking for you. You really should have been by my side when I gave the closing remarks."

I lowered my head. "I am sorry Daddy, I got busy with... chores."

"Well, Quill your betrothed husband was also worried and he's here to see you."

"OK Daddy, I will be with him shortly."

Before he left, he looked at me. "You know your engagement to Quill is a big step for the two of you, you both know that you have to focus on nurturing your relationship if you want it to succeed. Most importantly, I can guarantee that you're safe."

He finally walked away.

I left to meet Quill in the garden, he wore a glow on his face as he saw me approach.

"My love, where have you been since the festival?" Quill asked coming closer to give me a hug.

As soon as he withdrew, he told me, "I was hoping to have a good dance with you that night but you were nowhere. Lastvtime I saw you, you were serving yourself some wine.

"I'm sorry, Quill," I replied with a small smile.

"I got swept up in the festivities and lost track of time. The moon festival is always such an exciting time, and I ended up getting carried away with the music and dancing," I lied. "But, I promise, next time I'll make sure to save a dance for you."

I winked and he grinned.

"I'd like that. I've missed spending time with you, especially your dancing" he said, reaching out to caress my cheek.

"You always know how to move to the beat of the music." I felt a flutterry sensation in my heart. I had always loved to dance, and I was grateful that Quill appreciated my passion for it. It was rare for a wolf to find a partner who understood and admired her interests.

"I'll make it up to you at the next festival," I told him. "Promise."

"Don't worry, I'll find us a quiet spot and we'll have our own private dance there." Quill smirked charmingly and pulled me close.

"That sounds perfect. Can't wait." I blushed slightly as Quill's gentle touch on my cheek causes a hot sensation there. He was always so affectionate and attentive. That was what I loved the most about him.

Immediately, I remembered that my father was still around.

"I'm sorry, Quill," I said, gently placing my hand on his chest, pulling myself away from him. "My father is in, and I don't want to disrespect him."

Quill's face fell slightly, but he quickly composed himself, letting go of me. "Of course, you don't need to apologize. In fact, I'm the one who needs forgiveness for my behavior."

I smiled. "I totally understand. Thanks for respecting my boundaries Quill."

He just maintained his charming smile in response.

He was about to leave when I called him, "Quill. Would you like to join us for lunch?" I invited, gesturing towards the lunch table which was already set up with spreads of meat, berries and roots from the hunt.

Quill hesitated for a moment before shaking his head. "No, thank you, Ava." He scratched the back of his head. "I have some errands to run today, and I need to make sure that they're done before the sun sets."

"No worries." I shrugged. "There will be plenty more meals to share in the future. Take care and always come back to visit me when you're free."

Quill nodded in understanding before giving me a quick hug and heading out of the garden. I watched him leave, feeling the warmth of his embrace still lingering on my body.

"We understand, father," I said, my voice steady and firm. "We will not go anywhere near the meeting room."

My Dad nodded, then set out on his way to leave.

"But," I stopped him. "If I may ask, what is this meeting about? And why is it that we should not approach them? Is it that serious?"

My father looked at me with a serious, concerned expression.

"Is there something wrong father?"

He sighed. "Well, this meeting is with a group of wolves that you haven't met before. They're from a distant clan. I'm keeping you away because we have been warned that they can be somewhat unpredictable and a bit dangerous."

"Oh." I nodded knowingly. "Do we know what their intentions are?"

"No." Daddy said simply. "Well, not yet."

He maintained his solemn mood as he spoke. "You see that's why it's important that you do not approach them. We must wait until they're done with their business to decide how to proceed."

I took a deep breath, taking in the information and trying to process it all. I looked over at Mia, who was now watching my father, showing mixed feelings of dread and curiosity.

Daddy got up and left Mia and I at the table to finish our meal. It relieved me as it gave me a few moments to recollect my thoughts and calm my nerves.

"Are you okay?" I asked Mia, trying to gauge her state of mind. I could see that she was still nervous and it's understandable owing to what my Dad just said.

Mia took a sip of her water and looked at me, trying to appear confident. "I'm alright, Ava. I'm just trying to process everything that's happening. It's a lot to take in."

"I know. I've never in such close proximity to a clan of dangerous wolves," I said, reaching out to take her hand. "But we're in this together, and we'll get through it. Besides, you're a warrior. We just need to be smart and cautious."

"Definitely!" Mia nodded with determination. "I'm definitely a warrior Ava and trust me, I'll always have your back!"