Fern's Perspective
As night fell, moonlight streamed into my room through the cracks in the curtains, casting a faint glow. I sat on the edge of my bed, my thoughts racing.
The breeze rustled through the treetops, bringing a gentle coolness, and I breathed in the earthy scent of pine needles, feeling a sense of serenity.
"What about you? What are your dreams?" Vivian's icy words echoed in my mind once more.
"Hey, do you ever have a dream?" I asked my wolf softly, confusion tinting my tone.
"Dream? What the hell is that? I just want to roam the forest every day. There's nothing like running free at night under the moonlight. Hey, you know what? Why don't you let us go now. Look how beautiful the moonlight is tonight," my wolf said as he licked his paw.
I felt the familiar force stirring within me.
Raising my head, I gazed out the window at the forest, the wolf inside urging me, longing to be released, longing to run.
Taking a deep breath, I stood up, changed into lighter clothes, slipped on my shoes, and quietly exited the room.
Gently opening the door, I stepped out into the night. The forest, bathed in moonlight, seemed especially mysterious and serene, as though it awaited my arrival.
Entering the woods, the fallen leaves underfoot rustled softly. As I ventured deeper, the wolf within me grew stronger. I felt my body changing, heart racing and breath quickening, as if the entire world moved in sync with my steps.
Finally, I halted in an open meadow. With a low growl, I swiftly shed my clothes, my body becoming sleek and robust in the moonlight. Limbs stretched, nails lengthened, and I grew more flexible and agile.
In an instant, I transformed into a massive wolf. Emitting a deep growl, I sensed boundless power surge through me, a fervent desire for freedom. I began to run, swiftly traversing the forest, wind whistling in my ears, grass brushing beneath my paws. With each leap, each breath, my soul soared.
I dashed through the forest, leaving worries and stress behind. My mind found peace and strength in this liberated world. The stars above twinkled as if celebrating my run, and the moonlight cast a silver glow over my fur.
I ran for what felt like ages until exhaustion forced me to slow down.
Suddenly, a mysterious voice echoed in my ears from a distance, drawing me irresistibly to the forest's edge.
"Fern, come here... come here..."
Alert, I scanned my surroundings. The voice's origin remained unclear, but I sensed a familiar force calling out to me. A breeze carried a familiar scent.
"It's him!" My wolf exclaimed in surprise.
I hesitated for a moment, then decided to follow the sound. Pushing through dense bushes, leaves rustling underfoot, the distant harmony of birdsong and insect cries created a serene yet mysterious atmosphere. My heartbeat quickened, a mix of unease and anticipation.
Soon, I spotted a tall figure beside an ancient oak tree—it was my brother, Oliver.
"Fern!" Oliver's face lit up with a smile tinged with concern as he saw me.
"Oliver!" I hurried over, embracing him tightly. "What are you doing here?"
"I've been searching for you, Fern." Oliver's tone was gentle yet resolute as he patted my back. "And so have our parents. They haven't given up on finding you."
Warmth flooded me. I had thought myself abandoned by my family, but knowing they had been searching filled me with hope and gratitude.
"Are they... alright?" I asked cautiously, tears welling in my eyes.
"They're fine, just missing you terribly," Oliver assured me firmly. "They believe you'll come back."
I nodded, taking a deep breath to steady myself. My situation, especially with Giovanni's precarious relationship, felt increasingly complex.
"Oliver, I'm in a complicated situation," I sighed, opening up to my brother about everything that had transpired recently—my emotional affair with Giovanni and that damned "prank" of the Moon Goddess.
Oliver furrowed his brow, pondering for a moment before responding, "Fern, since Giovanni is clearly infatuated with you right now, he won't easily refuse anything you ask. Why don't you use this opportunity to reject him and break the bond between you two ? Then I can take you away and bring you back to our parents."
His words shook me. Memories of the moments with Giovanni flooded back, leaving me torn and anguished.
"I... I can't leave Giovanni," I finally said, overcoming my hesitation. "I made a vow, and I can't break it."
"What?" Oliver looked at me in shock.
I nodded helplessly.
Loyalty was fundamental to werewolves; once we made a vow, it couldn't be broken.
Oliver sighed, his eyes showing both understanding and helplessness.
"Alright, Fern," he sighed, patting my shoulder. "I'll return to our parents and see if there's a way to nullify the vow. In the meantime, take care of yourself until I come back for you."
I nodded, grateful for Oliver's concern and support. "Thank you, Oliver," I said, tears welling up as I hugged him tightly. "I'll take care of myself."
We embraced, drawing strength from each other. As the night deepened, the forest around us grew quieter, a gentle breeze offering some comfort.
"Actually, there's something else I need to discuss," Oliver said softly, releasing me and adopting a serious tone.
"What is it?" I asked, puzzled.
"I know a lot has happened between you and Giovanni," Oliver began quietly, "but you need to think about our parents and your future. Staying here puts not just you but our family at risk."
"I understand, Oliver," I replied, conflicted and pained. "But..."
"Fern," Oliver interrupted gently, "who knows what Giovanni might do when he realizes you've deceived him? You have to consider your future."
I fell silent, memories of happier times with Giovanni flooding my mind.
Oliver sighed softly, reaching out to hold my hand. "Fern, I know this is difficult. But sometimes, we have to make tough choices—for ourselves and for those we love."
I looked into Oliver's determined eyes, finding a sliver of comfort and strength.
"Thank you, Oliver," I took a deep breath, trying to steady my emotions. "I'll consider your advice."