Whispers Of The Lycan's Curse

NYLAH'S POV As I sprang with unbridled joy towards my parents, I couldn't help but ruminate on the significance of this day, thinking, ‘Today marks my seventh birthday, a milestone I've eagerly anticipated with bated breath,’ As the youngest daughter of the Star Pack, I've grown accustomed to being lavished with attention by everyone, my family's benevolence a constant source of comfort. Upon entering the conference hall, I grabbed my Mother's wrist with an air of determination, inquiring, “What gift do you have in store for me today? Refrain from proffering excuses, for I shall not be swayed by platitudes,” my Mother responded, “Nylah, are you cognizant of the fact that you're meant to shift today?” to which I retorted, “Indeed, but does this have any bearing on the gift you intended to bestow upon me?” My Mother elucidated, “As the daughter of Star Pack, you're expected to shift on your seventh birthday, a rite of passage that will determine your eligibility to be part of the Pack,” I countered, “Must I shift before you can present me with the gift? If so, I shall endeavor to do so, for my brothers successfully navigated this ordeal on their seventh birthday, and I see no reason why I should falter,” My Mother's concerns about me potentially becoming a rogue if I didn't shift only served to strengthen my resolve, “I am resolute, Mummy. I shall not be deterred,” I declared, my voice firm and unwavering. The council members exchanged uncertain glances, their skepticism palpable, but I remained undaunted. *** *** Later, my fourteen-year-old brother, Ospina, posed the question, “Are you certain you'll be able to shift without me, Nylah?” I replied, “Of course, Ospina. Refrain from gloating about your future ascension to Alpha. I shall be the Luna's confidante, regardless of the circumstances,” Our conversation was replete with laughter and playful jibes, but beneath the surface, I knew he was genuinely concerned for my well-being. *** *** I prepared to embark on my journey, Ospina's words echoed in my mind, “I shall be proximal to you; simply invoke my name if you require assistance,” I felt a sense of comfort knowing he would be there to support me. The events that transpired were far removed from my expectations. I found myself lost and disoriented in the woods, unable to shift. The sounds of the forest grew more piercing and unsettling by the minute. Just as I screamed Ospina's name, he appeared in his wolf form, and I rushed to his side, “What befell you, Ospina?” I inquired, and he growled, signaling he was fine, but I knew better. *** *** As we made our way back to the Pack, my parents’ disappointment was palpable. Ospina's weak state and my inability to shift had taken a toll on everyone. My Father’s words cut deep, “I have known since your birth that you would be a misfortune. You are useless! Do you comprehend the gravity of what you have done to him? He is being harmed by wolfsbane!” In that moment, I felt a profound sense of sorrow and loss. My gaze met Ospina's, and I knew I had to protect him, even if it meant facing the consequences alone. As I was dragged away to begin my new life as a servant to the Pack, I caught one last glimpse of my beloved brother and whispered, “Get well soon, brother. Farewell!”