Serena
I stayed at the Wolf Valley and although I was a complete stranger to the rogue camp, I never felt so accepted. The people here were all warm and welcoming as if I was really part of their small community. I couldn’t help but compare this place to Goldenridge.
Protecting my past and identity, I kept hidden under the name of Katniss Sloan. Life went on with me in the pack as I continued to recover from my injuries. But still, something was bothering me, the vivid dream I had one night about a fierce wolf residing within me, yearning for release. I knew what I had to do. I needed to prepare myself to incorporate my soul into this wolf spirit who would become my companion for the rest of my life.
When had fully recovered from my injuries, I mustered the courage to approach Lia, the first person I met in this camp. My heart raced as I went to the infirmary where she was present often.
“Hi, Lia,” I greeted when I approached her.
Lia’s face lit up upon seeing me. “Hi, Katniss. How are you? Are you feeling better now?”
“Uhm, yeah. Thank you for asking,” I responded. An awkward silence hovered above us until eventually, I decided to tell her what I came there for. “Listen, I need your help with something," I admitted, my heart pounding with fear of judgment.
Lia's kind eyes met mine, her voice filled with encouragement. "Of course, Katniss. I would be glad to help. So, what about it?”
My fingers fidgeted as I confessed, "I-I'm a late bloomer, and I need guidance on shifting into my wolf form."
“That would be easy,” she exclaimed. “So, what type of training would you need?”
“Well…uhm…everything…You see, I haven’t shifted into my wolf form just yet. I just met my wolf spirit and was still clueless about how to let him take over.”
“Oh, okay,” she said. I knew this task wouldn’t be easy so I appreciate all the help she would give. “I'll gladly help you with that. Tomorrow, you can join us in training. "
Relief washed over me as I thanked her, feeling grateful for her friendship. “Really? Thanks!”
“Don’t mention it!” she responded.
"Listen, may I explore the camp before our training starts?" I asked, wanting to get to know the place better.
"Sure," Lia replied, her warm smile reassuring me that I wasn't alone in this new world.
As I wandered the camp's unfamiliar paths, my curiosity led me to the gentle sound of rippling water. Intrigued, I followed the soothing melody, not knowing what hidden beauty awaited me.
I kept my pace slowly and further walked along the clearing. As I dove more, I could smell something moist and fresh. Slowly, I could hear the faint sound of rustling waters getting louder. I furrowed my forehead and kept on walking.
Curiosity led my steps until I reached a picturesque scene that took my breath away. Before me stretched a river, its waters a crystal-clear blue that sparkled like a gem in the fading sunlight. A small waterfall cascaded gently, adding a melodious rhythm to the serene atmosphere.
The coldness of the water seemed to embrace me, its clarity inviting me for a refreshing swim. I scanned my surroundings, my eyes darting to check if anyone was watching. The tranquility of the moment reassured me, and with the sun dipping low on the horizon, I summoned the courage to seize the opportunity.
I took off my clothes, letting them fall in a pile on the riverbank, and entered the water with a sigh of bliss. The river's embrace was cool against my skin, and I couldn't resist diving beneath the surface to explore its depths.
As I swam deeper, I realized the water was a bit deeper than I had anticipated. I kicked my legs to resurface, breaking through the surface with a gasp for air. But to my astonishment, my eyes met those of a man squatting by the water's edge, his emerald eyes locking onto mine. And then, I realized I was naked and instinctively covered myself.
"Ahh! Pervert!" My cheeks burned with embarrassment as I realized my situation. But instead of getting alarmed, the man with striking emerald eyes remained his eyes fixated on me.
The man, his bright green eyes glistening, seemed unaffected by my outcry. He gestured towards a nearby sign and calmly explained, "This area is restricted. No one is allowed to bathe here. We're trying to protect the water from being abused since it's our source of food and drinking."
I was a mixture of embarrassment and anger. My cheeks flushed, I demanded, "Turn around, then!"
Reluctantly, the man complied, giving me some privacy. I swam toward my clothes, determined to get dressed even if it meant making them wet and uncomfortable.
With my clothes finally on, though damp, I stormed out of the water. As I walked away, I couldn't help but mutter, "Pervert! You're no gentleman!"
The man simply chuckled at my departure, his green eyes dancing with amusement. A sense of familiarity washed over me. Why do I get the feeling that I already saw those eyes from somewhere?
But then, my impression of him remains. I just hoped that I would never see him again.