Reawakened Werewolf

Chapter 4: The Captor's Enclave

The Captor's Enclave

Luna wakes up tired and exhausted like other days trying to recollect bits and pieces of memories from her dreams and present reality no matter how small. A lot is going on in her dream mind but she hardly remembers anything while she is up.

She keeps a journal to record any fleeting thought that holds clues to her past.

As much as she can tell, she is like “a secret weapon hidden from the outside world”. Her only solace was her writing journal and sneaky moments with Debra, her keeper.

Just as she thought, Debra steps in with a warm smile. Her gentle voice and soothing presence immediately calm Anita’s racing thoughts.

“Good morning, darling, " Debra says, setting a tray of breakfast on the side stool. “How are you feeling today?

Luna blinks, trying to process her surroundings. “I…. I feel lost. I feel like I'm floating in darkness. Sometimes I wonder if death would have been better than not even knowing myself, what I've been up to or my hopes and dreams”

“and I often have nightmares these days, finding it difficult to differentiate between my dreams and my reality. And they feel much more real than my present reality”

Debra’s expression softens. “The most important thing is that you're safe here, dear, very far away from those that haunt your hurt. Tavan will never let a pin hurt you.

“Hmmm ….. I wish” she retorted.

“The night the boss found you and brought you to the fortress, I overheard him telling the doctor that you were attacked at the annual gathering where you attended with your parents. You were attacked by the desperate Millian pack merchants who claimed your parents signed you off as collateral for a loan which they failed to repay” Debra narrated.

“They only wanted to take you with them without a fight but the resistance your parents put up with the support of their colleagues, made everything turn bloody. Almost everyone was killed that day. If not for the timely arrival of the boss, you will also have been long forgotten” she added.

“Wouldn't it have been better than this misery of a life where I merely exist without actually living a fulfilled life? She questioned with teary eyes.

“You are much more a threat alive than death”. Debra corrected. “The fact that they raided the fortress for the second time yesterday means they are aware that you are here and they will not stop until they get you. But the good news is that they will die trying because only a fool will dare make an enemy of Tavan”.

There was a long silence, just heart beats. A lot of things didn't add up for her but there was nothing she could do but keep trying till she can remember something.

Her gaze drifts to the window, where bright sunlight filters through the bars. “What’s my name?” She asks suddenly “is it really Luna?

Debra's smile is replaced with a confused but thoughtful look. “That's what we've been calling you, yes. But we don't know your real name. You don't seem to remember anything about your past, do you”?

She shakes her head in frustration.

Debra's eyes sparkle with empathy. “Don't worry, we will figure it out bit by bit. Maybe some memories will resurface as we talk”.

“Tell me, Luna” Debra says “what do you like to do for fun? Do you enjoy reading or writing or painting?”

Luna's face lights up slightly. “I like reading and also writing flash points while I read. I feel….. at peace when I'm reading “.

Debra beams. “That's interesting! I’ll bring you some books to clear off boredom. Maybe a memory or two will come alive.

You could see the ray of hope in her smile as she sits up to extend an appreciative hug to Debra who gracefully embraces her with a gentle pat on her shoulder.

Just then, they heard the sound of footsteps outside the chamber signaling the arrival of Tavan and his guards.

Debra knows better than to maintain the endearing hug. They disengaged and awaited their arrival as she switched into encouraging her to take her breakfast which they totally forgot about.

The guard’s stern expression and cold gaze immediately sucked the warmth out of the space.

“Enough chit-chat, Debra. You have work to do. Prepare Luna for the ritual by 9am sharp. I expect her to be…… cooperative.”

“Yes sir” she nodded curtly as she gave Luna a reassuring look.

As Tavan and his guards departed, the room felt heavier, the air thick with tension.

Debra’s expression softened as she turned to Luna. “It's okay, I'll help you get through this”.

What is the ritual about? She questioned.