Chapter 0156

10 Years Ago

Running was the right choice three years ago. Father had been correct. Our Alpha sent warriors hunting for us relentlessly. Those initial years were brutal. We dodged through hostile territories, clashed with rogues constantly, and survived by hunting or stealing when necessary.

Father took whatever odd jobs he could find for cash. But we never lingered anywhere long. The moment he sensed our pack closing in, we vanished into the night again.

When not working, he trained me relentlessly. As Valeria's Guardian, he insisted combat skills were essential for my survival. Mother wasn't a fighter, so protecting us fell entirely on his shoulders initially. After months of drills, I started assisting during rogue attacks. Now at thirteen, I can handle two rogues alone. Father manages four, but I'll catch up. Valeria and I grow stronger daily.

Mother refused to let my education suffer. Without formal schooling, she became my teacher. The wilderness became our classroom - science in the forest streams, chemistry in campfire reactions, math in tracking prey. Gathering supplies turned into history lessons about supernaturals and humans alike.

The wild calls to my wolf spirit. This life would be perfect without the constant threats - our pursuing pack, supernatural hunters, or wandering Alphas who might claim me.

Everything changed when Father detected our old pack's proximity again. They'd herded us steadily southeast. We'd fled through Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and recently crossed into Kentucky's Black Canyon region. This area teemed with packs, but we'd found unclaimed territory.

When the warning came, we gathered our scant possessions and ran. This time, one of Father's former warrior friends intercepted us. Father mind-linked Mother and me to hide in a cave while he shifted to confront his old comrade.

With Valeria's enhanced hearing, I eavesdropped despite Mother's protests. I wouldn't let Father face death alone. Bones cracked as an unfamiliar voice spoke. "Reginald. You're notoriously difficult to locate."

More shifting sounds preceded Father's response. "Tobias. What an unexpected reunion."

"Enough games. Three years we've hunted your family. Why abandon the pack?"

"My reasons are mine alone. Walk away, Tobias. I'd spare you, but I'll kill you if forced."

Tobias sighed heavily. "Must it come to this? Your family deserves better. Help me understand. Everything was fine, then you vanished. The Alpha wants you home."

"We're never returning. That's all you need to know. Leave now before I do what I must. Our past friendship means nothing compared to my family's safety."

I shifted silently. Valeria and I crept through the underbrush, ready to intervene.