The sun had barely risen, casting a soft, golden light through the trees as Jeonghan, Mingyu, and Wonwoo approached the designated meeting spot.
This secluded part of the forest was far from the pack's main territory, a neutral ground chosen for its privacy.
They're here to meet Seungcheol first, away from the watchful eyes of the others, to assess him on their own terms.
Jeonghan's mind raced with thoughts. The responsibility of ensuring the new Alpha was worthy fell heavily on his shoulders.
He was actually grateful that Mingyu and Wonwoo, both fiercely protective of the pack, were there with him.
As they neared the clearing, the sound of footsteps reached their ears. Seungcheol emerged from the trees.
Jeonghan was the first to speak, his tone firm but not hostile. "Seungcheol, I assume?"
Seungcheol nodded, his eyes scanning the three wolves before him. "Yes. You must be Jeonghan, Mingyu, and Wonwoo."
Mingyu stepped forward, his tall frame towering over the new Alpha. "We've heard a lot about you. But hearing isn't the same as knowing."
Before Seungcheol could even respond, Wonwoo chimed in. "Why do you want to lead us? Our last Alpha left us in chaos. What makes you different?"
"Guys, let him breathe." Jeonghan said, pulling the 2 younger Alpha's back.
"It's okay." Seungcheol reassured. "I understand how you must be feeling. And I know I can't change what happened before, but I can offer my commitment to this pack." Seungcheol said, meeting their gazes.
"Words are easy, Seungcheol. We've heard promises before. We need to see action." Jeonghan added in.
Seungcheol nodded, his expression serious. "I understand. Trust isn't built overnight. But I'm here to earn it, no matter how long it takes."
"What if you're not as strong as you claim? What if you can't handle the challenges we face?" Mingyu asked, crossing his arms.
"Then I'll prove my strength through my actions. I won't make empty promises. I'll show you I'm capable." Seungcheol said.
Seungcheol could see Wonwoo's gaze softened slightly before the alpha turned to his other 2 pack members, whispering something.
Jeonghan exchanged a glance with Mingyu and Wonwoo before turning back to Seungcheol.
"We'll give you a chance, Seungcheol. But know this: The pack's safety comes first. If you prove yourself, we'll follow you. But if you falter, we won't hesitate to act." Jeonghan said clearly.
"I understand. And I won't let you down." Seungcheol agreed to the terms.
The three wolves nodded, a silent agreement passing between them. This was it.
As they turned to lead Seungcheol back to the heart of their territory, Jeonghan couldn't help but feel a flicker of hope.
Perhaps, with time and effort, they could rebuild the trust that had been shattered and forge a new path forward under Seungcheol's leadership.
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Starting New 《JeongCheol》
Fanfiction"I promise I will never leave you lonely." A JeongCheol werewolf au