My Warrior Luna

Chapter 4 ( Freedom And Wind )

Looking at Ava, it's hard to believe that such a beautiful woman really exists. Her finely curled dark brown hair reached just below her shoulders. Her dark eyes were accentuated by long black lashes and her plump lips were accentuated by translucent lip gloss. Her complexion is incredible, I have never seen someone so fair with light skin and enchanting amber-brown coloured eyes.

Issac and I made our way to the table in the usual manner. When we had reached our final destination he politely pulled my chair out to showing his gentlemanly manners. Strangely enough, I couldn't take my eyes off Ava, I must have looked very strange or creepy.

"Hello, Amelia. How was the babysitting?" Quin's soft gaze lingered on my face.

Only now was I able to pull my gaze away from the girl's lips as I mumbled a reply along the lines of - everything was going great. Quin's face now looked serious, probably with a very difficult and rigorous interview or discussion ahead of her.

"I'd like you to meet Ava. She is a first-year student who will be eligible for the tournament roster. I have two other applicants but if it were up to me, this girl should get priority." Quin's gaze shifted to Issac.

"Ava Bergin, nice to meet you." Ava's dark eyes darted to Issac and then paused on me.

"Amelia Folks." I smiled at the brief introduction.

"What makes you so special?" Issac's fingers drummed impatiently on the table.

One thing is clear, Issac doesn't need to introduce himself. I'm sure Quin has already managed to tell her about the headmaster of Barewood College. Even though the school year had just started a week ago, Issac hadn't had time to go to college and do his usual chores. We were a little busy with our own things and allowed ourselves to take a break from the stress of the upcoming school year. I guarantee just by the smell of it, Ava should have known who the person sitting next to her was.

"Issac." Quin's gaze turned dark and serious as she watched Issac.

"Just kidding, let's not get tense. It's just a friendly competition." Issac smiled broadly as he raised his hand, signalling the waiter to come to the table.

"Alpha Issac, I would like to make a proper introduction and prove that I want to participate in this tournament. I am confident that you want the werewolf representative to win the Crown of Light Tournament." A few lines etched themselves into Ava's forehead, and her husky voice carried throughout the restaurant.

"I don't think you need to elaborate. We're delighted that there is a volunteer willing to participate in such a tournament. Not everyone is willing to show their courage, strength and intelligence." The corner of my lips turned up and I ran a hand through my long, light brown wavy hair.

"Welcome everyone, can I take a drinks order for the table?" The waiter's voice distracted us from the subject of our conversation, thereby absorbing all attention.

"The best bottle of wine this restaurant has - we're celebrating." The answer slipped past Issac's lips and the low timbre of his voice sank into the restaurant's surroundings.

The waiter walked away from the table with a quick step and my gaze went to Quin and Ava who were sitting quietly on the other side of the table. For a moment there was silence between us, and my wolf looked as if something was on her tail, she spinning on her wheels anxiously. I can't disclose everything to her, if so I'll show her the true colour of my eyes and one thing will be clear - they are different.

Students are not allowed to know about the existence of Gods, Goddesses and Archangels. It’s too dangerous, it is enough that the main leaders know. Only the strongest can carry such a burden, responsibility and secret on their strong shoulders. We do not want to see a feud among the students. So the legend of the Chosen One still rings true, but we hear it less and less on the lips of werewolves. Most people have come to believe that it is just an old fictional legend.

"Is Sawyer okay with you potentially participating in the tournament?" Quin's unexpected question floated through the air, scattering my thoughts.

I could see from Ava's face that for a second she was lost, but only for one small moment. Then a wide smile graced her face and a strand of hair found its way behind her left ear. She probably feels uncomfortable discussing her personal life at this table, but we are all one big family. Whether she likes it or not, she will have to get used to this atmosphere. She is now a member of our big unusual family.

"Sawyer has my back." The corner of Ava's lips lifted, and her gaze drifted toward Quin.

"Still want to prove you're fit for our tournament?" Issac's eyebrow rose, and his calm face looked directly at Ava.

"Issac, what are you up to?" Quin's gaze shifted to Issac, and there was a note of curiosity in her voice.

"Sure, I like dares." Ava's gaze shifted to Issac.

"Duel with Amelia. Today, shining full moon in true form. If you defeat my fiance, I will be convinced that you are fit for this tournament." Issac's eyebrow rose.

"Issac, have you lost your mind?" Quin's voice was full of indignation.

"I agree. I'll meet you at the red oak?" A strange smile graced Ava's face and her brown eyes turned towards me.

"I think it will be a great workout." I winked and smiled broadly.

I don't know why Issac suggested this unexpected duel, but I'm not one to run away from a challenge. It's just a friendly fight, nothing bad will happen. I missed being in my real form immensely and the she-wolf inside me wagged her tail in approval of the notion, wanting to get out into the fresh night air as soon as possible. Then something inside me seemed to twinkle, a signal of a stupid decision.

"Issac?" My eyes darted to my fiancé sitting next to me.

I hope Issac understands that my true identity will then be revealed. I am convinced that Ava knows the legend of the Chosen One. No doubt that in her mind after the fight, there will be more questions about why my eyes are different. Perhaps all this can still be undone? Are we not taking a risk in doing so.

"Don't worry, everything will be fine." Issac's hand found my thigh with a gentle click and a small smile appeared on his lips.

"Are you sure about that?" Quin's forehead etched a few lines, and her voice sounded a little quieter than usual.

Issac nodded and we were distracted by the waiter who put a bottle of wine on the table. Slowly, he took care of the four sparkling clear glasses in front of each of us. Leaving our table he wished us a good evening. While Issac was pouring red wine in all the glasses, my gaze drifted towards the restaurant window, where grey clouds were still gathering outside. Little by little, the darkness seemed to occupy the streets and the days were getting shorter. Silent raindrops fell from the sky and clattered against the glass, though it was hard to hear them over the soft piano melody playing from inside the restaurant.

I realise that Issac does not want to hide my identity, which will sooner or later come out. Ava is Sawyer's real mate and we probably have no other option, but is it worth the rush? Or maybe Sawyer has already spoken about the legend and its protagonist, me? It's just silly speculation in my head, interrupted by a quiet clink on the glass. My gaze went back to the table and rested on Issac, who was holding the glass.

"I'd like to propose a toast to this new acquaintance, and welcome Ava to our family." Issac's blue eyes went to Ava, then to Quin and me.

"To Ava." Quin smiled softly, clinking the wall of her glass with the others.

"To Ava Bergin." The corner of my lips lifted as I looked at the curly-haired owner across the table.

The sweet wine slowly slid down my throat, leaving a pleasant taste in my mouth. The glass soon reached the table, and I leaned back in my chair.

"So what are you best at? One-on-one combat? Distance running? Solving puzzles? Sound recognition? Tracking supernatural beings?" My eyebrow rose at the sight of Ava.

"Want to know more about your opponent before you enter the fray?" Ava smiled broadly with her hand on her chin.

"Ava's the frontrunner. I can give her ten points in every area you listed." Quinn dipped her eyes as she brought the glass of wine to her lips.

"Did Ava beat you in the first round?" My eyebrow rose, and my gaze went to Quin.

I saw Quin's cheeks flush, and the wine in her throat stuck for a moment, forcing a gasp. Yes, Ava was probably strong, but no stronger than the hybrid sitting across from her. I am not one to brag, but I know my own strength and worth. I don't doubt Quin's words about Ava, this woman is probably the best option to represent werewolves. I can see from the first minutes of meeting her that she is assertive and confident. She does not lack respect for others and charisma in her character. However, it is only her outward traits that are more important than what she is like in her real werewolf form. Is she strong enough to withstand the duels she will face in the tournament? Is she smart enough? That is what interests me most.

" Second." The corner of Ava's lips turned up, and her gaze went to Quin.

The evening just flew by in front of my eyes, and my brain melted the information somewhere in my head about Ava. She's a simple girl who lives near this town. She buried her dad a year ago. To escape the pain in her chest, she decided to go to a college that her friend had suggested. Ava's mother stayed alone, although most of her werewolf pack chose to live within the boundaries of Barewood Art College. So suddenly one day she met Sawyer and her inner she-wolf just screamed - mate.

"Thank you for a wonderful evening, we'll see you again." Ava stood out of her chair and then smiled broadly as she directed her gaze at each of the people still seated behind the table.

Soon after, Ava left the table and Quin said goodnight to. It was just me and Issac and the half glass of wine I hadn't finished on the table. My mind was trying to put all the dots together to weigh up the possibility of who Ava really was. This woman reminded me a lot of Brook but, she is much more serious in character. It was as if the life of a wise old woman had been stuffed into such a young and beautiful body.

"What is on your mind?" Issac's low voice dispelled my thoughts.

"Why do you want to reveal my true identity to Ava now?" My confused gaze shifted towards Issac.

"Sooner rather than later. Ava is the other half of Sawyer's heart. I'd like her to find out sooner rather than have a million questions and doubts in her head afterwards. Even though Ava hasn't marked Sawyer yet, I don't think it's going to take long to knowing my brother. I know we might be risking revealing the whole truth, but if you think I’m wrong you would tell me, right?" Issac's blue eyes travelled on my face, and his hand slowly travelled up and down my bare legs, sending pleasurable shivers down my body.

"I trust your actions, Issac. Although I don't think this fight is a good idea. What chance does Ava have of winning against me?" There was a note of hesitation in my voice.

"It's important that Ava will train for this. It doesn't matter if she wins or loses. For some reason, I have a feeling that the magic ball that selects the participants will choose her. Well, now it is time for us to go. We need some rest." Issac took out his wallet and left the cash on the table.

"Where are we going?" I got up from the table with a light movement.

"Let's leave the intrigue behind." Issac blinked and then his hand found mine.

Although these high heels are driving me crazy, I can't wait to see where Issac has decided to take me. We slowly walked towards the restaurant's exit and a cold wind blew in my direction as the door opened. The rain seemed to have finally stopped. The car door, with Issac's help, soon opened in front of me, and a few seconds later the engine roared to life. The car moved out of the way, and soft music filled the interior of the car.

The car turned in the complete opposite direction to our house, which raised even more questions in my mind. In spite of this, a smile was still playing on my lips, showing the anticipation that was going back and forth through my body.

Looking out of the window, it was getting dark all around and the streetlights provided some light. The buildings of the city were left behind, with only the long straight road and the dark forests merging into each other. I missed nature so much it seemed like an eternity since I was in my true form. Although I'm sure it's only been about a week since the last time I was out in the woods letting my she-wolf enjoy her freedom.

"Are you all right?" Issac's low voice came from the side.

"Why should I be any different?" My gaze went from the window to Issac's face, which looked worried.

"You seem preoccupied and silent." Issac's gaze returned to the side in the road.

"I wonder where you’ve decided to take me." The corner of my lips lifted, and I put my hand on Issac's hand that was resting on my leg.

The car soon turned left and then stopped in a small parking lot by the woods. Issac got out of the car and I eagerly followed him. Looking around, I didn't see him, but then my gaze drifted to the back of the car where he was standing with the boot open. I shortened the distance by a few steps and turned my gaze towards the contents of the machine. There were two large sports bags, and a broad white smile instantly appeared on my face.

"Freedom?" My eyebrow rose and my hand immediately grabbed one of the bags, passing it over my shoulder.

These sessions with Issac are my favourite. When you can run for kilometres in the wet woods with the wind whistling pleasantly in your ears. When the forest crunches under your big paws and the soft moss caresses your feet. When your chest is heavy and you're just lying in the middle of a giant meadow looking up at the starry sky and sharing the most secret and crazy thoughts that pop into your head.

My feet carried me to the first bushes and Issac kept up with me. The bag fell down somewhere nearby, landing loudly in the tall grass. A few waves of pain and soon four paws were touching solid ground. Without waiting, I set off at high speed into the forest, knowing that Issac would soon catch up with me. The dense forest flew past my eyes and the wet moss made strange noises with my paws. The wind ruffled my thick fur and a small joy rose in my chest. It made me want to howl at the moon hiding somewhere in the dark sky.

After a few more miles of running, I heard the crunching of a jackdaw and I took a step towards it at a fast speed. I sped up my running, but Issac caught up with me without much effort. A proud, large black wolf soon appeared in my sight. My legs carried me forward, and Issac kept pace with me. I cannot tell you the feeling in my chest that comes over me every time, as if it were the first time I had experienced it all. The excitement, the freedom, the joy, the eagerness and the desire to never stop.

"Where are you going?" Issac's voice came close to me.

I don't know who to thank for this wonderful gift - probably my mother. I have always been sad that when I am in true form I can't communicate with anyone, I only hear my own voice in my head. The fact that Issac can communicate with me is something truly unique. Can anything be better than that? A part of my Goddess is now shining with the brightest light imaginable. The power in my chest that the legend speaks of is the ability to communicate with all kinds of supernatural beings. It is probably my calling and gift to bring peace and reconciliation to all the creatures that walk on this earth.

"Straight." I felt a smile appear on my own muzzle.

"Amelia doesn't smile, you look angry." Issac's voice sounded extremely loud.

I guarantee he would be laughing out loud if we were in human form now Issac. I remember how I used to like to tell him that his smile looked sinister as a werewolf. My gaze drifted to the starry sky. After another twenty steps, a huge meadow came into view where we decided to lie down and enjoy each other's warmth. I curled up quietly on the ground, even though I could feel the cold coming off it, it didn't bother me. My thick coat protects me from the weather, which to an ordinary person would seem brisk and chilly.

Issac curled up next to me, snuggling as close as he could to share his warmth with me. As the minutes passed, the sky became clearer and the air temperature seemed to drop. A slight breeze was stirring the tall grasses of the meadows, and the owls were hooting in the woods, still sleepless. Somewhere nearby, nightjars were playing their melody, at the first falling drop, the sound reached my sensitive ears.

"Where do you want to go on your honeymoon?" Issac's voice rang out in the silence.

"France?" I exhaled air from my lungs, and a low moan escaped my chest.

"Wherever you want my love, it’s your decision." Issac snuggled closer to me.

Even though the raindrops were falling fast from the sky, the wet coat did nothing to deter me. I wanted to lie here longer but I completely lost track of time. Isn't it still time for me and Ava to fight? I got up off the ground, signalling to Issac that it was probably time to go back. We walked slowly towards the beginning of the forest through a large meadow. As I took the last step towards the forest and left the meadow behind, I looked over my shoulder. A strange blue light was shining at the other end of the me men adow. There was nothing there before, what there?