002

The run to Tasha’s pack was more exhilarating than Storm could have imagined.

She had almost forgotten what it felt like to actually run.

What it felt like to actually be free to her nature, to her real being.

She hadn’t turned in what seemed like an eternity and honestly, she was enjoying it.

As she ran through the dense forest, the exhilaration of being in her true form once again filled her with a sense of freedom and abandon that she had almost forgotten.

The rustle of leaves and the snapping of twigs beneath her paws sounded like music to her ears. The cool air filled her lungs, and the scent of the wildflowers wafting through the forest invigorated her senses. As she ran, she felt a weight lift off her shoulders, and she knew that she was leaving behind the pain and loneliness of her past.

The painful memories.

Not just the painful memory of the day before but of her whole life in the pack.

The seclusion, having to hide herself, being made to wear contacts ever since she was born.

Then her parent’s death.

She remembered how painful it had been to actually navigate life without her parents, since she had been so used to them doing everything for her.

For the past five years, she had built her life, from scratch, working, making new friends in the quarters.

She had found a good balance in her life while also hiding her powers.

But all that came crashing to the ground when……

Her heart squeezed and she shook it off.

She had left, and she should leave all these memories behind her.  She could feel; a new beginning before her.

Although she had no idea where Tasha was taking her, but she could feel it in her core, that she was running into a new chapter of her life

When they got close to a clearing, Storm followed Tasha’s wolf behind a tree where they changed.

She brought out her bag, and changed into a gray pants and black tee, handing Tasha the red gown. 

Then without a word, they made their way into the busy city, with Storm’s heart pounding.

**********

Storm followed Tasha through the busy city streets, the bright lights and blaring sounds overwhelming her sensitive werewolf senses.

“This place is amazing,” Storm whispered, and Tasha smiled.

“It is, isn't it? This is my pack. The Crescent pack,”

Storm has never heard of the pack before though. All she knew was her own pack. She had never even attempted to leave.

Her pack was a very small one, they had everything they needed in the pack, and even low omegas like her never had the privilege to step outside the gate.

Storm stared at the buzzling cities, the big houses, hoping her mouth wasn’t hanging open.

This was a far cry from what she knew.

How could all these be a single pack?

She followed Tasha as she made a turn into a dark tiny street, looking around.

“What’s wrong? Why are we going through this dark alley,” She had to ask.

“I a m trying hide,” Tasha responded, walking faster, “I will be in big trouble if they find out that I left without permission,”

Oh……

Storm nodded and just followed her silently

 They darted through alleys and side streets, avoiding the prying eyes of the humans. 

It was exhilarating and terrifying all at once although she still did not understand why they were sneaking around.

Why would she need permission to go out, and who would even see her? The city was too busy.

As they finally made their way out the dark street into a territory Tasha called the Packhouse, Storm was struck by the stark contrast to the wild forests she was used to. 

The packhouse was nestled in the heart of the city, surrounded by towering buildings and bustling streets.

 It was strange to see werewolves living in such an urban environment, a very big contrast to her pack.

Tasha led her to a hidden entrance, and they slipped inside the packhouse undetected.

 Storm could feel her heart pounding in her chest as they snuck through the hallways and up the stairs to a room. The tension was palpable, and she could tell that Tasha was nervous as well.

As they finally made it to what seems like Tasha’s room, they breathed a sigh of relief. 

They had made it without being caught.

But what had they been hiding from in the first place? Storm had no idea. But obviously Tasha didn’t want to be seen so she just followed her lead.

 Storm looked around the room, taking in the plush furnishings and expensive decor. It was a far cry from the barebones shelter she was used to. The shelters she had grown up and lived in all her life.

"This is amazing," she said, her voice filled with wonder. "I can't believe how different it is here."

And it was really different.

How come their pack isn’t this open and developed?

All their greedy Alpha ever did was stack up his own pocket and belly and unfortunately his son was now following his footsteps.

Whoever the leader of this pack was, he is doing a very good job for his people.

Tasha smiled. "Yeah, it's definitely different from living out in the wild. But it's home to me."

"Wow," she said, taking it all in. "This is incredible."

Tasha nodded, but her eyes were focused on something else. She sat down on the bed and brought out a book from under her pillow, and then glanced back at Storm with a n unreadable expression.

“Why are your eyes purple?” She whispered, clutching the book to her chest.

Storm frowned at the question.

“Genetics” She replied with a shrug although she knew it was deeper than that.

She actually never knew the real meaning behind her eyes.

But judging from the way her parents had always seemed to over react and hide it, Storm was sure that there was more to it.

Tasha frowned for a bit and said nothing. 

“So, what now?”

What was her fate now that she was here?

Tasha stared at her for a while, then with a sigh gestured to the bathroom, "You should freshen up," she said. "It's been a long day, and you could use a break."

Storm nodded, feeling a little embarrassed at her state. She had been running through the forest since the day before, and here was someone who she just met a few hours ago helping her.

 She headed towards the bathroom after Tasha left the room feeling grateful for the chance to clean up.

As she stepped into the shower, she felt the warm water wash over her, soothing her sore muscles and easing her tension. She lingered under the spray for a long time, letting the steam and heat relax her. It had been so long since she had been able to let her guard down, and she savored the chance to just be.

When she finally emerged from the shower, Tasha was waiting for her with a smile. "I brought you some clothes," she said, holding out a stack of fresh garments. "I thought you might appreciate something new."

Storm's eyes widened as she looked at the clothes. They were beautiful, with soft fabrics and intricate embroidery. She had never owned anything like them before.

"Thank you," she said, feeling a little overwhelmed. "I don't know what to say."

Tasha grinned. "You don't have to say anything. Just put them on and see how they feel."

Storm changed into the clothes, feeling a sense of wonder as she admired herself in the mirror. The clothes were soft and silky, and they fit her perfectly. She felt like a different person, someone who belonged in this opulent world.

Tasha watched her with a fond smile. "You look beautiful," she said. "But more than that, you look like you belong."

Storm felt a surge of gratitude towards Tasha. She had never met anyone like her before - someone who was kind, generous, and accepting, all at once.

Although she still felt uneasy with the help, she could not help but feel grateful for at least a chance to rest before she continues on her journey.

“I will go talk to my brother about you. You two will get to meet, and I am sure I can convince him to let you stay here with us as one of us”

Storm frowned, “What?” Let her stay? That could not be possible right?

There was no way they would accept a stranger into their home just because she saved her life.

But before she could say another word or ask more questions, Tasha left the room and closed the door behind her.

Her life was about to change, and she would make sure that it is for the best.