Embrace the wild

Prologue

This story has long remained hidden; many have attempted to suppress it. I do not know when the first of them appeared, nor if anyone truly does. I am uncertain even of what to call them. The tale begins in an era defined by selfishness, when wealth conferred power and honor was frequently disregarded. Religion dictated political affairs. Few were acquainted with Clan MacGregor, which was their preference. That changed when saving a life became the clan’s undoing—a life destined for kingship. The reign of this king was lengthy, and as is often the case for those who endure long, arduous lives surrounded by adversaries disguised as friends, he grew cruel. His cruelty precipitated not only his own downfall but also the destruction of the MacGregors. When his throne was lost, his secrets—and those of the clans—were exposed.

Some regarded the MacGregors as unnatural, though only a few had witnessed them in battle. Describing them as wolf-like is accurate, yet they never fully transformed into wolves. They possessed the predatory instincts of wolves and were formidable in combat: difficult to defeat, intelligent, and swift. Like wolves, they were indifferent to wealth or power. Their battles were fought for conviction, not for gold. They defended their land and families. Legends assigned them many names; among the most common was 'berserkers.'

Those who possess power are reluctant to relinquish it. Individuals driven by greed cannot comprehend alternative ways of living.