Chapter 13

"Slow down. I can't go that fast. I'm telling mom…"

"Ughhhh this is why nobody wants you around. If you wanna tag along then you have to keep up…"

She knew it was wrong, but it didn't stop her from kicking his front wheel as she pedaled past him. She didn't even glance back after hearing his high-pitched scream, stopping only when the twins turned back in horrified haste.

"Leah, he's bleeding! We're gonna get in so much trouble."

Trust Rebecca to always look out for numero uno, even as her younger brother laid on the ground, oozing blood from his knee. In truth, Leah had felt bad. Jacob was beyond annoying, but he hadn't been deserving of her anger. She'd nearly lost her mother the night prior in childbirth, and it was all because of their precious baby boy. It was Seth she'd wished to punish but Jacob had been the next best thing.

She pressed her eyelids shut, smiling at the memory and wiping the perspiration above her lip before chugging down the water. Why had the memory come? Her mind was racing now and she welcomed the distraction from the pain. Sue had been infinitely patient with Leah in those early days following Seth's birth. When Leah had made it ever so clear she wanted nothing to do with him. She was a daddy's girl thru and thru, and she'd resented the gleam of pride in Harry's eyes after learning it was a boy.

It was like he'd won the lottery and somehow, she'd been the consolation prize all along. Her heart clutched at the memory of her father's kind face and the mere reference to Sue. Deep in her heart Leah knew her mother's spirit was no longer of this earth, but she never spoke of it aloud, more less allow herself to grieve, because that would make it real. But it was Seth who was at the center of her thoughts now. Seth, a child she'd resented with relish and who'd worn down her resolve with his blinding sunny personality. A boy who'd loved her unconditionally despite herself. A man who walked away from his pack to follow her across the world. Her brother in arms and in blood.

And the notion he may never set eyes on her son, who resembled his character so closely, felt too much to bear. Leah failed to understand her own thoughts. Why was her mind betraying her now? This was not the time for sentimental trips down memory lane. And she remembered she was not of one spirit but of two. Leah valued the camaraderie with the other She-wolves, but her allegiance would always lie with La Push. And her wolf spirit missed their pack terribly. Leah had once resented the lack of choice, but she'd never questioned their loyalty in the face of danger. Regardless of time and distance, she knew without an ounce of doubt they'd come to her aid now if called.

She couldn't say the same for those accompanying her son. She was rolling the dice and praying for the least tragic outcome. Leah had once ridiculed Emily and Kim's domestic fervor, but now understood the transformative power of motherhood. She'd heard some of the wolves describe imprinting as a gravitational pull and a half of one. Kayan wasn't Leah's other half, he was flesh of her flesh and blood of her blood. A walking, living, cut of her marrow. She could not fathom existing in a world where he ceased to be.

Guilt overpowered her as she set eyes on her companion. Sokanon must be going out of her mind, and she was entirely to blame. There were three lives riding on her shoulders now, including her unborn's, and any other day, Leah could shoulder the burden. But not today. She was sick with worry, exhausted from the journey and drained by the ache. The odds were not in her favor. But Kayan's chances were far worse, so she gathered her wits and pushed forward.

Tavi froze mid step, his panic-stricken eyes desperately searching the She-wolf's for a command. A silent conversation passing between them. His racing heart echoed in her ears as she steadied her own breathing. Time stilled for an infinite minute as Tayen's scent grew potent, mingled with that of her son's, and far removed from the rest of the pack. Instinct took over and Leah quickened towards her son with Tavi, at her heels. The cracking sound of splintering trees grew louder as they neared the top of the hillside slope.

Leah tried for a sprint, but her body failed. Tavi considered stopping to assist but there was simply not enough time. Kayan wouldn't last very long. His bruised body curled forward with effort. A tall sheet of bedrock at his back in a strategic defensive low crouch as Okano and Tayen closed ranks. The additional wolves present, now sensing their approach, turned their attention towards them. Tavi was a lowly pup, he stood no chance fighting in his wolf form and would surely be forced to cower under the weight of any command.

He leaped forward in his human form. Higher ground and youthful agility granting him slight advantage over the seasoned wolf. He soared past him, but not before landing a solid back kick to his head, prompting the other wolf to attack. It bought Leah just enough time to join the fight. She pushed past her fatigue and dug deep for enough strength to rip the second wolf off Tavi, hurling him a good distance away. Her savage guttural growl echoed out as Tavi quickly joined her in flanking Kayan's side.

"Not today bitch."

Tayen chuckled dismissively, seemingly amused by Leah's challenge.

"Chikuk did warn me about you. Leah's the wild card, he said. Look at you…outnumbered, and nevertheless, ready to fight for your pup. It's quite touching really, but it doesn't change how this will end. It didn't have to be this way, Leah. Now poor Aylen will mourn 2 pups and 1 imprint."

"No, please. Let my mother and Tavi go and I won't resist."

A low growl was Leah's immediate reply.

"There must be a crumb of humanity remaining inside you, Tayen. Don't do this…he's using you both."

Okano was growing nervous and equally impatient. Their window of opportunity was closing, before the she-wolves grew suspicious and came in search of them.

"You are lying to yourself if you really believe there is a choice."

His words held no malice, but the icy undertone made Leah's blood run cold.

He turned to the 2 accompanying wolves, utter indifferent with his command.

"Kill them"

Kayan was swift in shoving Leah out of harm's way, but consequently absorbed the brunt of their brutal attack. His back crashed onto the bedrock, embedding his silhouette onto the stone from impact. The ringing in his ears was disorienting and he gasped for air, breathless from the excruciating pain. But he had to move, or he was dead and then he'd be rendered useless in helping his mother and best friend.

Tavi was holding his own against the other wolf but was rapidly losing ground. Leah was sluggish but understood she had seconds to make her next move as Okano shifted menacingly towards her son. Her heart clutched knowing her choice had been made the minute she left camp by shepherding Tavi to this place. But she wasn't quick enough. Tayen's claws dug deep into her scalp as she dragged her away by the hair.

Leah struggled to break free, screaming desperately not out of fear or pain, but over the unbearable helplessness engulfing her. It couldn't end this way…Kayan and Tavi's loud grunts serving to erode her brittle hope. A gust of air kissed her cheek…the echoing crack of broken bones to her right, quickly followed by violent challenging snarls. Leah hit the ground hard and pushed herself up through the pain in hopes of making it to her son.

She choked out a cry of relief. Sahale, crouched menacingly over Okano's lifeless human form and she wasn't alone. Her young protégé Catori, alongside Tavi were making fast work of the other two wolves. Tayen fled the second she caught scent of their approach. Her instinct for self-preservation, undoubtedly the reason Leah remained alive. And she hobbled towards her injured son. Kayan was struggling to remain on his feet, and it was Sahale who forcefully guided him to the ground for some much-needed rest.

Their situation was dire and there was no going back now. Two of Chikuk's soldiers laid dead but a far worse offense was Sahale's slaying of Chikuk's trusted wolf. Okano was a waste of air in the eyes of most of the pack. But she couldn't claim self-defense, nor did she hold the ranking or authority to commit such an act of violence. Sahale tried for neutrality, but the bubble of growing resentment had finally burst.

Leah was an outsider, yet Sahale held deep respect for the she-wolf's bold views and outright defiance. Leah spoke the truth. The she-wolves in this pack were a force to be reckoned with. They held far superior leadership qualities than most of their male counterparts and yet were denied a vote in decisions concerning the pack. They were the hunters and the first line of defense to be sacrificed in war. They were the caretakers and yet held in low regard.

Sahale was tired of looking the other way. She was sick of justifying her Alpha's malevolence and couldn't have stomached doing nothing while Kayan was to be served for slaughter. Her only regret was allowing Catori along. But there was no time for regrets now and as she exchanged a glance with the pregnant, she-wolf, it was clear the sentiment was shared.

"Kayan, can you run?"

The young wolf nodded bravely, holding his left side, and grunting loudly as he came to his feet. Tayen had sprinted in the direction of her traveling party. She'd spin a web of lies and they'd surely be hunting them within the hour. Both Leah and Sahale agreed, their only chance for immediate survival was reaching Kalia and the scouting party before the traitorous she-wolf. Leah felt liquid dripping down her leg as they started their trek but said nothing. She held back the tears, determined to keep pace.

It was a respite of freedom. The she-wolves gathered around Kalia, some cross-legged on the ground floor, while others perched on the nearing boulders encircling their second in command. With Okano's abrupt departure, Kalia capitalized on the opportunity and ordered a meeting. Their alliance was frail, in part due to the dangerous rivalry stirred by their tyrannical Alpha. But here in the open country, without his oppressive oversight, they breathed easier and Kalia hoped they'd listen openly as well.

Nauja sat tensely. She had much at stake but remained quiet. Some of the she-wolves resented her status as Chikuk's sister and others bore distrust. Kalia commanded the majority's respect and was poised to convey their plan.

"There is a matter of great importance to discuss. This will not be easy, so I say to you, we do not have to agree but we will listen to everyone's voice regardless of their beliefs."

The she-wolves quieted; piqued interest painted across their features, prompting Kalia to say more.

"I no longer speak of the past. It holds many painful memories. But today, I will make an exception so you, young ones, can understand. The she-wolves of this pack have continually outnumbered the male wolves and long ago we were treated as equals. Our Alpha was strong, yet fair…he punished, but also forgave…he was fierce yet knew how to love. Tuari was an exceptional leader but a better man".

Nauja's tears cascaded down her face while listening to Kalia's impassioned words.

"I have stayed silent far too long, but no more."

Rumblings erupted, and Kalia took in the expressions of fear and shock but remained undeterred.

"I know what you all believe, what we, who survived were forced to repeat. We repeated it so many times we may have deceived ourselves into accepting it as truth. But it is a lie. Tuari was executed over greed and power. He was a visionary who welcomed the she-wolves' leadership".

"Kalia DON'T, it is forbidden".

An older she-wolf pleaded, jumping to her feet and Nauja came to stand at Kalia's side for support.

"Please, you must listen."

"NO. You seek to divide us for your own agenda of revenge. Revenge over your brother and fallen mate. It is pride that drives you."

"What pride? We are treated as property. How many of you have sent your sons and daughters away without choice? When was the last time you refused to do anything in this pack? I won't hide my resentment but it's more than that…for the first time in a long time, I am hopeful".

Apprehensive glances were exchanged but there was also longing and regret. Silence ensued, followed by a she-wolf's long sigh. Nita recognized the indecision in her pack sisters' eyes. The seed of unrest had been sprouting in many. Countless tired and angry glances shared, but no one ever spoke out, at least not to each other and never aloud. Nita wasn't particularly popular or brave, but in that moment, Nauja and Kalia's sincerity stirred her blood. The moment to speak was now, or the momentum would soon pass.

"I am also angry, but HE is too strong. We cannot overpower him, so what are you proposing?"

Nita couldn't bring herself to call him by name but made her willingness to listen known.

"That we value our strength and follow a leader who does so as well."

Many she-wolves nodded in agreement, yet others remained skeptical.

"And who would that be, Kalia? Who is going to challenge Chikuk, you?"

"No, I have no claim to the Alpha bloodline. But there may be one who does."

"The so-called prophecy child? You're as delusional as he is."

Nauja was close to disclosing their guarded secret when a familiar whiff shifted her focus to the South. The scent of fear and blood clouded the unique traces of the wolves running towards them in human form. Their labored breathing spoke of exhaustion and of a chase. But it was Leah's labored grunts which put Nauja on high alert. What was she doing this far out from the encampment?

There was no time to explain the ugly details, but it was necessary to convey the danger. Sahale wasted no time searching for Kalia and shouting out her testimony.

"Tayen and Okano gave the order to kill Kayan. They lured him away and ambushed him along with two other wolves. Catori and I had no choice but to intervene. Tayen fled but I am certain she will order the rest of the pack to hunt us down."

Shouts of distress erupted at once. Questions…accusations…bellows of outrage. It was impossible to track who questioned what. Nauja locked eyes with Leah, a tense wordless exchange of understanding passing between them. They were out of time. There would be no planning or negotiating support. Survival had become the only current objective.

"What about Okano?"

"Dead"

Sahale's unflinching reply silenced all. Terror creeped in and the line on the sand was drawn.

"Tayen has much favor with Chikuk. We must take them in so they can stand before him."

Sahale's low growl almost matched Leah's feral one.

"Where's your spine? Did you not hear what I said? They were going to kill him and then kill Tavi and Leah for stepping in. And who do you think gave the order? There isn't going to be a trial you moron, only an execution."

"ENOUGH"

Kalia stood by Sahale's side, readying to step off the precipice, come whatever may.

"Are you so desperate for his scraps that you would turn your back on your sisters and all you know is right? To overlook the injustice in front of you to save your own hide? That you are even considering this says we have lost our way. We are NOT taking anyone in and if you can't back my decision then leave and leave now. I will not compromise any plans by speaking further in the presence of cowards."

Nita watched in disbelief as they took their leave. She and 5 others remained apart from Nauja, Kalia and the small group. There was no point in packing belongings for what they were setting to do. Nauja took in Leah's breathing, try as she might she wasn't fooling anyone. It was only a matter of time before her child came but there was no time to examine her. She motioned for the group to follow, silently hoping the Lycan had been forthcoming in his instructions to the werewolves' den.

Nita voiced her concern over their trail and Kalia simply smiled. Her tracking skills were superior to all, apart from Aylen's. Though she would never concede to it aloud. She took her place at the rear, putting said abilities to good use in concealing their tracks as best she could. Leah took comfort in the increasing pull to the South. He was close…she only prayed he made it in time.

Sokanon pleaded with Aylen, but the agile tracker refused. If there was one thing you could bet on, it was Tayen's resolve to prioritize her survival above all. The bodies of the fallen wolves would be seen as failure, so, Aylen knew, she wouldn't risk angering Chikuk further by risking another loss. And the strong pull to the North further anchored his resolve. Leah was alive, and Aylen knew she'd never abandon their son, or Tavi, for that matter, dead or alive. Tracking Tayen was the wrong choice, but he was empathetic to Sokanon's growing anxiety.

"Sokanon, you need to trust my instincts now. I recognize the traces of their blood as well, but they are alive, and Leah is to the North. She would never leave their side if they were taken back to camp. And I am certain Tayen headed back to fill Chikuk's ear with poison and for

reinforcements. We can't waste any time if we hope to reach them in time to help them survive."

Tikaani took Sokanon's hand in hers, a rare display of compassion.

"My father's right. Our best chance of finding Kayan and Tavi is to find Leah."

Sokanon was losing her composure but knew Aylen spoke the truth, bowing her head as a sign of her acceptance. They had not stopped to feed or rest but the three weary wolves continued at a frantic pace and Aylen's fear intensified as they closed the distance between them. Something was off. Leah's scent was tainted with the smell of sickness.

Was she hurt?

Aylen forced his attention back to the trail, but Tikaani's abrupt halt made him pause. Her eyes bore intently onto his, but Aylen failed to understand.

"To the East, father"

Aylen had a one-track mind but relinquished Leah's trail to honor his daughter's request. He crouched low, patiently awaiting the telling of the downward wind. It was feint but unmistakable, a musty Lycan scent mixed with that of their own. But it was not Aleut. And Aylen understood Tikaani's unease. He considered changing course for a fraction of a millisecond to seek out their help, but Aylen's need to reach Leah and his son was greater. And Tikaani intuitively understood his hesitancy.

"We need their help father."

Aylen replied with an exasperated look.

"You don't think I realize that? Our priority is with our family. Finding aid will have to wait."

"We can do both. I can seek them out. You and Sokanon continue without me. I have speed and familiarity on my side."

Aylen held her gaze. She was a far superior hunter and warrior than he'd been at her age. It was a smart move, but he wrestled with the choice. Tikaani in truth had been his first love. Her existence had served as a beacon of light in a tunnel of absolute darkness. It pained him deeply to consciously place her at risk. And the softness in her eyes told him she was vastly aware.

"I can do this father. Please trust me."

Aylen took hold of her hands.

"I know you can, and I do trust you. It's everyone else, I do not trust", he whispered tiredly. "Be swift. You have till the end of day, or I'll come looking."

Tikaani wasted no further time, taking off at the speed of light. Sokanon's confusion was clear, and Aylen took care in bringing her up to speed as they continued North in search of their beloved. Full disclosure was necessary now as each Aleut wolf had a choice to make regarding their alliance to Chikuk. They ran at full speed, encouraged by the familiar scents growing stronger with each stride. But also, on full alert at the distant sound of paws racing towards them.

Koli trusted his cousin's sharp mind, but it was hard to hide his growing irritation. Not the best combination for the ill-tempered wolf. This was a lotta of convoluted planning for a whole lotta ifs. But even through the uncertainty, he was thrilled to see glimpses of Hawk's old self emerge. Koli had signaled a thumbs up and had thoroughly enjoyed seeing his annoyance after he'd painstakingly divulged details of his elaborate plan, only to receive a one finger acknowledgement.

It all felt surreal. Was this really happening? They were on foreign soil, possibly facing hostile wolves over a woman who'd perhaps chosen these wolves over her family and pack. Not to mention risking the fragile peace the werewolves had worked so hard to achieve. And they were going at it rogue. Their odds were shit no matter how much planning was involved, and it was best he kept that to himself. So, a one finger acknowledgement had been all he could muster.

But it wasn't just the prospect of war which had him on edge. Something was off between his pack brothers. The stench of tension and shame was thick, and it needed squashing at once. They had to be unified now more than ever to face what came next. He motioned for Tokola to follow, stripping off their clothes and taking their lupine form, clearly intruding on a tense exchange between their other two pack mates.

Are we gonna talk about this?

Caleb's embarrassment was clear.

How long?

He's of legal age

I'm not accusing you. I'm just surprised and sad…

Sad? Fuck you, Hawk. I never took you for a homophobe.

Ezra is my baby brother, and it hurts that he chose not to tell me. This isn't about you…well maybe it is a little…but it's mainly about my guilt for not being present in his life.

Tokola couldn't hide his discomfort, wishing he could phase back and leave this conversation behind, but it was too late. Yet Koli savored the new pack scandal.

Caleb, you cougar.

Shut up.

Why? You're both making something out of nothing. Yeah, it's a little awkward, but eh, shit happens, man. I mean I will say, you took mentoring to a whole new level and the kid is barely of age but hey, you're both consenting adults.

And that was all Caleb could endure, tackling Koli to the ground and snapping at the cheeky wolf, fangs on full display. Gideon and Kosha ran to separate the two wolves, putting an end to the exchange. Koli phased back human, a mischievous smile in place.

"Oi lads, that's enough. This is no time for a row."

"That's what I'm trying to say. Stop catching feelings, the both of you and get your heads in the game."

Hawk and Tokola phased back, both appearing equally annoyed, but knew Gideon and Koli were right. Their attention should unarguably be to learning the truth about Leah. And if by some miracle the she wolves spoke truth, then it would require quick thinking and abundant fortitude on their part. The truth was, as irritating as Koli was, they were incredibly grateful he'd answered their call. The she-wolves declaration had left Tokola deeply unsettled, and Caleb similarly disturbed. And Hawk wasn't immune. They'd successfully planted the seed of doubt on Solace's lineage, but Hawk was better at compartmentalizing then his two packmates.

In a way, Koli's dominant nature was better suited for what came next. He was as unpredictable as the danger they were facing; both fearless and tenaciously loyal. No better wolf to have their back. And so were the werewolves for that matter. The tension was mounting but they wouldn't need to wait long.

"Incoming from the West"

Teagan's warning was unnecessary. A pair of bounding feet nearly echoed amid their silence. And they all turned to meet the possible danger head on. Tam`as stepped forward challengingly.

"Identify yourself or persist at your own risk."

They slowed to a jog, then a brief halt as cautious steps emerged from the tree line onto the open meadow. She was wolf, that much they knew, but they took the opportunity to examine the petite woman intently as she approached.

"That's enough. Stay where you are."

Hawk's eyes bore onto hers. It was the same She-wolf he'd first encountered during those confusing first days in the territory. He'd recognized those icy-grey eyes anywhere, so like those of his precious peanut. A look of amusement crossed her features as she regarded the apprehensive Lycans and wolves, almost mockingly.

"I am but one to your many. Am I truly so intimidating?"

And it was Koli who couldn't resist sparring with the confidant She-wolf.

"Please. It's your horse stable stench we want to keep away."

Her eyes narrowed in distaste, but she understood there were far more important matters than her pride at stake.

"I am here for one reason only. Leah's in trouble and we need your help".

"What's happened to Leah? Who's we? Where are the other two, she-wolves? This wasn't the plan."

A cacophony of questions erupted all at once, exasperating Tikaani's patience.

"There's no time to explain right now. I can tell you on the way, but we need to go AT ONCE."

"So, you're expecting us to follow you blindly? How do we know you are not walking us into an ambush?"

"I may very well be, which is why we cannot waste any more time arguing back and forth. We need to get to her before they do."

And Koli had heard enough.

"Oh hell no. Stop talking in code and speak plainly. Who's after her?"

"Forget it. You're all a bunch of cowards. My father was right, I'm wasting my time. What more do you need to know? I just told you Leah's in trouble. That should be enough."

Tikaani turned back the way she came, angry tears running down her face which she was determined to hide from view. And Tokola had also heard enough, challenging his brothers fiercely. His voice betraying his anger and disgust.

"She's right. There's nothing else to know. I am following her, with or without you because I am not returning to La Push unless I know I did absolutely everything I could to bring Leah home."

He trailed after her, and Hawk knew he was right, even at the risk of forfeiting their own lives. But he couldn't ask the werewolves to do the same. So, he turned towards Tam`as, but the werewolves were already rushing to pack up their few belongings to follow along. An so it began, the unlikely alliance of werewolves with members of 2 rival packs, in their quest to amend for past mistakes and with hope for new beginnings…

Playlist

Into The Abyss-Lorne Balfe

The Story of the Swan

A feeling I've Never Been-

Bounden Duty-Kris Bowers & Tayla Parx