Chapter 14

The gentleman who enraptured him possessed a countenance reminiscent of a metropolitan belle Liam had encountered some weeks prior. Keiran's resplendent complexion exuded an ethereal radiance, and during their conversations amidst the verdant woods and the placid wolf lake, Liam found solace in Keiran's mellifluous voice, which harmonized impeccably with the latter's cherubic visage.
Keiran's heart-shaped lips boasted a flawless septum that had been meticulously contoured. Liam's fingers quivered as he gingerly traced their outline, luxuriating in their velvety, lavender softness.
He quickly removed his fingers from Keiran's lips, and Liam swallowed repeatedly.  He was damn and damn confused about himself.  He looked up and leaned his back against the headboard.
"C-Connor," Keiran mumbled while sleeping.
“C-Connor...”
"I miss you.."
Liam nonchalantly lifted his shoulders. When he first crossed paths with Keiran, he made a snap judgment based on the latter's appearance. Keiran appeared out of place in the rugged terrain of the mountains, with his suave demeanor, striking features, and an unmistakable air of metropolitan sophistication.
However, as Liam gradually discovered Keiran's passion for all things related to nature and the great outdoors, he began to regard him as a cherished friend. Liam eagerly anticipated Keiran's insights on urban living and the extravagant lifestyle that Liam had only heard of in passing, and turn, Liam was eager to impart his knowledge of life in the idyllic countryside.
Keiran's slumberous mutterings piqued his curiosity. Who was this "Connor" that had escaped his lips? Was he immersed in a dream world? Liam fervently hoped that it was a pleasant reverie. He surmised that the mention of this enigmatic name held a special significance for Keiran. With a wistful sigh, Liam tenderly clasped Keiran's delicate hands that lay atop his chest.
He ruffled Kieran's hair with one hand.  Breathing deeply, he continued ruffling Keiran's hair.  He thought of how he will be introduced later in the morning when Keiran woke up and saw him, how could he tell Keiran his name?  He remembered that Keiran wanted to know his name, Keiran always asked his name whenever the two met in the woods.  No way, he couldn't tell him.  The thought of lying more about himself makes him feel bad, he's not used to being a liar, and it's not good for him, or even for everyone else.  It doesn't benefit him, he gets nothing from being a liar, and it's a must for everybody to be honest.
However, he knew that it only shocked Keiran if he directly told him about his nature, it'll make Keiran confuse.  He wants that part to be buried in a lie, he will take care of the rest.  He tapped his forehead when he remembered that he should have talked to Mr.  Fergus again about how he addresses himself if Keiran asks who he is, and his connection with his uncle. 
He thought that Keiran was even more confused since they already met each other. As a werewolf, he understands that it's important to maintain a low profile and not reveal too much about himself. Even though he has already met Kieran, he can sense that Kieran is still confused about his identity.
He wonders if he should lie and come up with a fake story, like pretending to be the son of Mr. Fergus's late wife's sister, or if he should say that he works for Mr. Fergus's tea farm.
After considering his options, he decides that it's best to present himself as a tea worker. He trusts Mr. Fergus and knows that he will be able to vouch for him if needed.
The weight of falsehoods and lies weighed heavy on him. He knew that presenting a false identity to Keiran could result in a painful reveal of his true nature, causing harm to Keiran and others he cared about. He had taken on the responsibility of protecting Ark Ville from the Wildfang Shadow pack, led by the new Beta. Keiran's safety was his top priority. He was aware of the looming threat, and he had to stay vigilant and focused on his mission.
As he reflected on his purpose, he remembered the reason for Maximo's son's death. Mr. Fergus's killing trap had taken a life, and the Wildfang Shadow pack saw Keiran's head as compensation. He knew the stakes were high, and he was willing to do whatever it took to protect Keiran and the rest of Ark Ville. He couldn't risk his true identity being exposed, but he also couldn't bear the thought of Keiran being hurt by his lies and pretense. He had to tread carefully and make difficult choices to fulfill his duty and keep his friends safe.
“C-Connor...”
Liam smiled. He heard it again, the name of the guy that Keiran was mumbling.  He was curious who the guy was, maybe a friend from the city, or a schoolmate, or a childhood best friend.
"Why did you hurt me..."
He grinned.  He heard it, why did that one called Connor isn't gentle to Keiran?  Sometimes friends fight and even reach the point that they can hurt each other.  Maybe that was the reason why Keiran moved to the village, to unwind and forget about his pain.  But Liam wasn't sure. The only thing Liam knows about Keiran is his sweet scent, brave and enticing smiles, his height which is six feet, and his warm welcoming eyes, he knows nothing about his favorites.  Perhaps one day if they'll become close he would ask Keiran to play favorites with him.  That's Liam's chance to get to know him.
Liam gently caressed Keiran's tender cheek, Liam was taken aback to feel the dampness of tears that had cascaded down Keiran's cheeks. A pang of concern gripped Liam's heart as he realized that Keiran must have been crying. Liam's mind raced, trying to understand what could have caused such sorrow to consume Keiran.
As Liam recollected Keiran's recent murmurs, a shiver ran down his spine. Keiran had asked a haunting question, one that spoke of deep pain and unhealed wounds. Liam's heart ached at the thought that Keiran might have been tormented by the painful past love story.
Liam pondered the intricacies of pain and its lingering grip on the human soul. Could the pain of past trauma be as raw and crushing in the present moment as it was when it was first experienced? Liam's thoughts swirled as he tried to fathom the depths of Keiran's pain.
Liam yearned for a dream that felt as vivid and real as life itself. And yet, when he finally lost himself in the world of his imagination, he found himself dreaming of a conflict that was as ancient as it was terrifying. In his dream, a war raged between werewolves and vampires, two powerful species locked in a never-ending battle for supremacy.
As Liam watched this epic struggle unfold, he felt his heart pounding with a mixture of fear and fascination. The werewolves were fierce and savage, their primal strength and agility making them a formidable force on the battlefield. And yet, the vampires were just as deadly, their otherworldly powers and cunning tactics allowing them to strike from the shadows with lethal precision.
Despite the chaos and violence that surrounded him, Liam found himself drawn deeper into this fantastical world. He longed to see a vampire with his own eyes, to witness the power and mystery that made them such enigmatic creatures. But even as he indulged in this inane interest, a voice in the back of his mind reminded him that the line between fantasy and reality was all too thin.
With a jolt, Liam realized that his dream might hold more truth than he had ever imagined. Perhaps vampires did exist, hidden away in some forgotten corner of the world. And if that were true, what other secrets lay hidden in the shadows, waiting to be discovered? As he pondered this possibility, Liam felt a chill run down his spine. For better or for worse, the world was far more mysterious and dangerous than he had ever realized.
With a tender gesture, he delicately caresses Keiran's cheeks with his palm, imbued with a sense of reverence and devotion. Despite their innate kindness, the members of their pack do not bestow the title of "master" upon any individual besides the Alpha, whom they unflinchingly safeguard and attend to, as dictated by the strict werewolf protocol. Nevertheless, he gladly assumes the role of Keiran's loyal servant, recognizing him as his youthful leader, prospective comrade, and fraternal equal.
Liam's senses were heightened, and his vigor returned to him with a sudden burst of energy as he detected the sound of a werewolf panting outside the house. The familiar fragrance wafted into his chamber, signaling the identity of the lupine creature beyond. A low growl reverberated through the air, causing Liam to grit his teeth and fortify himself with all his might, as he left Keiran's side and strode towards the entrance. With measured steps, he pushed the main door ajar, revealing the silhouette of a gray wolf lurking in the shadows below.
The wolf shifted into his human form. It was Brien again, the messenger.
"I thought you were already leaving the pack?"  he asked in some surprise.
Brien breathing deeply.  "I escaped, and now I'm on my journey, I want to reach the third bus terminal to the city before the sun rises.  Maximo doesn't know about my journey and I'm pretty sure that he'll be disappointed."  He looked in the distance, where the great darkness filled.
"So, you're telling me that you're a risk now?"
Brien nodded.  "But I am here to send you a message for the last time, the Alpha is very mad at your betrayal, he sends the Gammas to hunt Keiran, can you tell me who's this Keiran?"
"The young man in question happens to be the nephew of Mr. Fergus, a fact that makes it all the more unbearable for me to fathom Maximo's intentions of savagely slaughtering and feasting upon the flesh of the very man who took me under his wing. Maximo lacks the prudence to analyze the situation, which explains his deteriorating state.
"Moreover, his misguided assumptions about Keiran only add to his folly. It wouldn't surprise me if he were to discover that it wasn't Mr. Fergus who perpetrated Leonard's murder but rather the hunters from the neighboring settlement." He bared his wounds to Brien. "They shot me down, and I plummeted from a cliff. Had it not been for the providential presence of the cliff, I would not be here to tell the tale."
Brien conveyed, "It has come to my attention that during the imminent red full moon, the Gammas will be dispatched. It behooves you to brace yourself for such an eventuality. However, I implore you to abscond, travel to the metropolis, apprise Keiran and Mr. Fergus of the situation, secrete yourselves there, and if feasible, refrain from returning as that is precisely what I intend to do."
Liam shook his head. "I must impress upon you that I am the sole scion of Luna Grayhide, and the progeny of Amminus Grayhide, the Alpha of Crest Pack."
"F*ck, why are you telling me that now?  Is your Alpha father still alive?  The pack is the richest in the east...”
Liam's slightly smiled. "The werewolf wars claimed my father's life, and my mother was ruthlessly slain by the hunters. Currently, our pack is relegated to eking out an existence in our ancestral territory, awaiting a leader of unparalleled mettle who can resurrect our pack and fortify it beyond its previous glory. I am resolute in my determination to take on Maximo, regardless of the cost. I shall unmask his true identity and bring him to justice. I can adeptly assume the roles of a rogue, beta, and feral all at once."
Liam looked at Liam with pleading eyes. "Liam, your tenacity and prowess are awe-inspiring. I wish you all the strength and power you need to accomplish your mission. Will I have the pleasure of meeting you in a place of tranquility once your noble quest is fulfilled?"
Liam assented with a nod. "I shall rendezvous with you in the metropolis, my dear friend, Brien."
"Bear in mind that Trent, our beneficent ally within the pack, will scour the area in search of you to attend to your injuries. The Sentinel is vigilantly guarding the mansion. It seems that Alpha Maximo is either apprehensive of your might or he is protecting the pack from your perceived threat."
"I am not as malevolent as he may think, my friend. Nevertheless, I shall not shy away from a confrontation if he chooses to launch an assault with his pack."
"Understood, Liam. Your destiny lies in reuniting with your father's pack."
A grin of gratitude crept across Liam's face. "I am deeply appreciative of your unwavering support, Brien."
"I must depart now, my esteemed Beta," Brien beamed, his countenance exuding affection and respect. "I have a pressing need to traverse great distances."
A tender smile graced his features. "Kindly ensure your well-being, my dear friend."
With a swift metamorphosis into his lupine form, Brien cast a fleeting glance at his companion, acknowledging him with a nod. He then dashed away, emitting a resounding howl, his figure gradually receding from view with each passing moment.

Book Comment (140)

  • avatar
    Bryan Onell

    nice story

    16d

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  • avatar
    alvesbreno

    bom

    02/05

      0
  • avatar
    Lildale Dela Torre

    thaks

    28/04

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