Apple Martini

Chapter 5 - The Moon's Gift

Ethel was back in that strange dreamscape, bare feet in the sand and a cool seaside breeze whispering through her dark curls. It seemed clearer than it had been the last time she was here, and with the big blue sky stretching out overhead, she could see how the seaside seemed to go on for miles, all the way off into the distance.

Ethel...

Ethel's head jerked around quickly at the voice, quickly recognising it as the same one she had heard when she'd fallen unconscious a few hours ago, just after realising that Alpha Regan was somehow her mate. The same dark blurry shape was approaching her, leaving small prints in the sand behind them. Like before they still flickered in and out of focus, but the closer they got the more Ethel could make out some features. The two stars became eyes - almost like she was staring at a pair of diamonds, much like the ones on a particular necklace Liana had received for her birthday the year earlier - she could also make out fur and what looked like a fluffy tail.

"Who are you?" She called out cautiously - she could feel her heart racing beneath her ribcage, but out of anticipation rather than fear.

The shape came closer and closer, and finally Ethel's vision appeared to refocus.

By the Moon Goddess.

The wolf was beautiful indeed, with ebony coloured fur and pearlescent silvery eyes that still glowed up close. Ethel had seen some of her packmates shift before, but she had never laid her eyes on a creature that exuded such elegance.

Ethel...

The wolf came to a stop right in front of her.

Finally...we meet...

Ethel frowned; the voice of the wolf sounded like a distant echo even though she was right in front of her. The confusion also gave way to disbelief and surprise as the wolf crouched into what appeared to be a bow.

Tentatively, Ethel found herself taking a single step closer, running her hands through the wolf's fur. She felt her body relax as the wolf purred from her touch, happiness radiating off the animal - wait, how did she understand what the wolf was feeling?

"You're...a wolf." Ethel observed, unable to figure out what else to say. "Why are you here? This is another dream...right?"

The wolf lifted her head to look at her, her eyes glittering with amusement as the voice chuckled.

If you want to think of it that way, then perhaps this is a dream. One I have waited years to have with you...and yet I've only just managed to awake.

Ethel tilted her head at the creature.

"...Awake?"

I was supposed to come to you years ago...The wolf seemed to say, snorting with frustration as she shook her dark coloured pelt. Perhaps it was thanks to you finally meeting your mate...but I'm here now. You have suffered so much injustice in my absence haven't you? I am not at my full strength yet, but I promise that once I am, I will help you get back what you are owed. For now...you have Alpha Regan and his wolf to support and help you. Stay with them. He may have complex emotions regarding our bond but...he will do whatever it takes to ensure your welfare.

Ethel's eyes widened at the conviction she sensed in the wolf's voice. She was starting to put the pieces together, but at the same time she still didn't want to believe it.

"How do you know who I am...? And you still haven't told me your name..."

Ah yes, apologies. My name is Elodie. The wolf dipped her head slightly to allow Ethel to pet it, the animal rumbling happily. And as for how I know you...isn't it obvious?