The increasing influence

Melissa’s POV

The library echoed with the growls of the rogue wolves as they continued to close in. As my hands began to glow golden once more, my only thought was to keep my friends safe.

As Dennis had said, I tried to focus and channel the energy by closing my eyes. Gradually, I visualized a wall erecting around us, a shield of defence that would deter the outlaws. The light intensified, and all of a sudden, I sensed an invisible wall of power pulsing outward.

The wolves yelled in astonishment as they were flung backwards after running into it. As the shield held firm for a few while, I gasped and felt a wave of tiredness sweep over me. However, the light around my hands quickly faded as my knees gave way and I staggered.

I was caught by Damon, who had worried eyes. "How are you, Melissa?"

I was so exhausted that I could hardly stand. I gripped his arm and muttered, "I... I think so." "However, using my power drains me so much."

Looking around, Lucas saw the outlaws fleeing. However, it was successful. You kept us safe.

I felt my power ebbing away as I attempted to grin. There was a cost associated with using this ability, whatever it was.

Damon led me to the exit and urged, "Come on." "We must leave this place before they return."

My head racing, we walked out of the library with his assistance. I may be protected by this ability, but at what cost?

Dennis drew me aside outside, his expression solemn. "We need to talk, Melissa."

I inhaled deeply as I felt anxious. Denny, what is it?

To make sure no one else could hear, he looked around. "Your power is powerful, but it's also risky. You barely survived, and you witnessed what transpired inside. Raven is going to use it against us if you don't learn to control it. He won't give up until he achieves his goals.

I averted my gaze while my hands shook a little. Dennis, I didn't request this. None of it was ever my desire. However... Nor can I simply ignore it.

Dennis touched my shoulder reassuringly. "I understand. You must exercise caution because of this. Sure, you must keep the pack safe, but don't let this authority rule you.

I felt a mixture of responsibility and terror. I thought about the shield and how it saved us, but it also left me exhausted.

"If my power is so... unpredictable, how am I supposed to protect anyone?"

Dennis's fingers tightened on my shoulder as his eyes grew softer. Melissa, one step at a time. Also, keep in mind that you are not alone. You must be willing to assist yourself before we can help you.

I gently nodded, but the fear persisted. To keep everyone I loved safe, I wanted to be powerful. However, the power within me felt like a ticking clock that would detonate at the slightest error.

Damon discovered me waiting in the training area the following morning. "All set for some instruction?"

I forced a tiny smile. "I'm as prepared as I will ever be."

We began with simple exercises meant to help me relax. As he led me, Damon stood beside me and spoke steadily. "Keep in mind, Melissa, that control is more important than just power. You underestimate your strength.

I nodded while taking deep breaths and attempting to regain the concentration I had at the library. "I'll give it a shot."

A few rounds later, Damon stepped forward and placed a kind hand on my shoulder. "You know you don't have to do this alone."

I raised my head to meet his eyes. His eyes had a warmth to them that suddenly made my heart skip a beat. "I understand... and I appreciate that.

Damon's expression softened. "I only wish to assist. Melissa, you are important to me. More than you realize.

My pulse raced at what he said, but I quickly averted my gaze in confusion. Although I had a deep love for Dennis, Damon's intimacy caused me to doubt everything. Did I also have feelings for him?

He gave me a light shoulder squeeze before I could reply. "Let's continue. We have tasks to complete.

His presence was firm and comforting while we trained for hours. I was worn out by the end, but I had a tiny ray of optimism. Maybe, just maybe, I could manage my power with Damon's assistance.

I was sleeping that night when I was startled awake by a knock at the door. With a strained look, Damon peered in.

This is urgent, Melissa. Raven sent a message.

With my heart racing, I sat up. "What is his desire?"

Damon gave me a piece of crumpled paper. Raven scribbled the phrases in his sloppy handwriting:

"Melissa, meet me by yourself at the forest's edge. I have the information you're looking for regarding your ancestry. But only if you arrive by yourself.

As I read it, my hands trembled and my mind was racing with thoughts. Why would Raven want to share any information with me? Was he trustworthy?

A profound frown was fixed on Damon's face. "This seems like a trap, Melissa. You cannot travel alone.

Torn, I bit my lip. What if he does have answers, though? Don't I have to seize the opportunity to learn more about my family and my abilities?

Dennis's eyes were worried when he entered the room. Think carefully, Melissa. Raven is up to something if he wants you to come by yourself. He might be attempting to manipulate you or, worse, turn you against us.

I felt both terror and resolve as I tightened my hands. Raven had been after me for a long time, but now he was providing clarification. Could I pass up this opportunity?

Damon's voice was soft as he caressed my arm. "You're risking everything if you go. But you might never find out if you don't go.

I stared at them both, my thoughts racing. I wanted to keep my pack, my friends, and all I held dear safe. However, I also had to comprehend my inner power, its source, and how to manage it.

I took a big breath and decided. "I must leave. I must know what he is aware of.

Dennis and Damon exchanged anxious looks, but I could see the comprehension in their eyes. They were certain that I would not change my mind.

Damon nodded slightly. Then let's at least remain close. If something goes wrong, we'll be hidden and ready to assist.

I gave a headshake. "No. He requested that I come by myself. He may vanish if he senses another person.

Dennis sighed, anxiety tightening his face. "Just, Melissa, tell me you'll be careful."

Despite my racing heart, I smiled reassuringly at him. "Yes, I will. I will return shortly.

I felt cold as I walked out of the room and into the darkness. Ahead, the forest loomed, silent and dark, full of secrets and peril.

As I reached the edge of the forest, a shadow moved ahead, revealing Raven’s silhouette under the moonlight. He smiled, his eyes gleaming with a knowing look.

“Well, Melissa,” he said in a low voice. “Are you ready to learn the truth about who you are?”