Guardian Wolf: A Scar In Time (Book 1)

Chapter 29: Sanctuary

The Blue Moon pack had found sanctuary in a lush, secluded grove far from the encroaching wildfire. The grove, nestled between towering cliffs and fed by a serene, crystal-clear stream, provided a much-needed respite from the chaos they had just escaped. The air was cool and fresh, a stark contrast to the acrid smoke and heat they had fled.

As the pack settled, Samson gathered the wolves in a clearing by the stream. His demeanor was grave, his eyes reflecting the weight of recent events. The wolves formed a semicircle around him, their expressions a mixture of exhaustion and solemnity.

"Everyone," Samson began, his voice strong yet tinged with sorrow, "we've faced a great ordeal. The wildfire has ravaged our territory, and the battle with the Hawthorn pack has taken a toll on all of us. But we have survived, and we will rebuild. Before we move forward, there is something we must address."

The wolves murmured softly among themselves, their eyes flickering with anticipation and unease.

Samson took a deep breath, his gaze sweeping over the gathered pack. "Gabriel is dead."A hushed silence fell over the wolves. They looked at each other, processing the news with a mixture of shock and confusion.

"He betrayed us," Samson continued, his voice steady. "In our moment of greatest need, he turned against his own pack and tried to kill Chance."

Chance, standing near the front of the group, felt the weight of every eye turning towards him. He swallowed hard, the memory of Gabriel's betrayal still fresh and raw.

"Why would he do that?" Dakota asked, his voice trembling.

Samson's gaze softened. "Gabriel harbored a deep resentment towards Chance, stemming from the belief that Chance was a curse upon our pack. He couldn't see past his own fear and anger. In the end, it consumed him."

Echo stepped forward, her eyes brimming with determination. "Gabriel was wrong. Chance isn't a curse. He's our Guardian. He saved us."

Blaze nodded in agreement, his voice firm. "We all saw what happened. Chance channeled the power of Lucan and created a path through the flames. Without him, we wouldn't be here."

The pack murmured in agreement, their eyes now filled with respect and admiration as they looked at Chance.

Samson raised a paw to silence them. "Gabriel's actions cannot be excused, but his death is not a cause for celebration. He was one of us, despite his flaws. Let us remember him for the wolf he once was, not for the mistakes he made at the end."

The wolves nodded solemnly, understanding the gravity of Samson's words.

Celeste stepped forward, his voice strong despite the turmoil inside him. "Gabriel's death is a reminder of what fear and hatred can do. We must be better. We must stand together, united, if we are to protect our home and each other."

Samson nodded. "Well said, Celeste. We will honor Gabriel's memory by being the best versions of ourselves, by protecting the Jade Vale, and by preparing for the challenges ahead."
As the pack began to disperse, Wren approached Samson and Chance. "Samson, Chance," she called softly, her voice carrying the weight of years and experience. They turned to face her, their expressions attentive and respectful.