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Silver Wolf - Chapter 44



Chapter 44



“What?!” How is that possible? How did that happen?” Alpha Marcus asked him, with eyes wide open in shock.

 

“I have no idea, Alpha.” The guard responded, as he finally gained balance.

 

“What could have caused this? Who could be behind this?” Alpha Marcus asked, turning to Beta Richard, who was also in shock.

 

“I have no idea, Alpha. I'm as confused as you are.” Beta Richard answered him.

 

Right then, Beta Richard’s phone rang and he immediately pulled it out of his pocket and answered the call.

 

“Yes?” He said and he answered.

 

“Oh, really?” He asked the caller and continued, “I'll be right there.” He said and the call ended.

 

“What is going on?” Alpha Marcus asked him, “Who was that?”

 

“I just got a call from Lily. She is at the site of the fire.” He answered and put his phone away.

 

“And?” Alpha Marcus pressed urgently. “Does she have any information yet? Anything at all about what started the fire or if there are any casualties?” He asked impatiently, his voice laced with concern and his tone, sharp with urgency.

 

As he spoke, he paced back and forth, his eyes fixed intently on his Beta’s face as he waited for his response.

 

“She didn't say anything about that, but she said some eyewitnesses said that  the fire was sudden and so, they do not know what caused it yet.” He replied.

 

“I'm going there right away so that investigations can be carried out. If there are also casualties, they'll be attended to and taken to the hospital immediately.” He said, his phone in his hand to alert the emergency team, while he waited for orders from Alpha Marcus.

 

“Good, go immediately. Ensure you update me as things go.” Alpha Marcus ordered and Beta Richard immediately left with the guard who had brought news to them.

 

Arriving at the scene of the fire shortly after, Beta Richard was met with a chaotic sight. Flames engulfed the building, shooting high into the air as firefighters battled to contain the blaze. Emergency vehicles also surrounded the area, while the guards helped to contain the crowd, who were wailing at the sight before them. 

 

Mothers, crying for their missing children and children, crying for their parents whom they can't seem to find. Siblings cried as they searched for their other siblings who were nowhere in sight. Even the store owners cried as they watched their stalls being razed by fire, yet they could not do anything to save their means of livelihood.

 

“Oh my goodness!” Beta Richard exclaimed. “No one told me that it was this bad.” He said to himself in shock as he turned off the ignition of the car.

 

He jumped out of his car, not waiting for the guard who he came with, and rushed towards the Beta Lily who had already alerted the emergency team and was with the incident commander. As he looked around his heart raced with concern for possible casualties.

 

“Lily.” He called as he rushed towards them, his eyes scanning the scene with a mix of confusion and alarm.

 

“Any updates yet?” He asked, anticipating a positive response.

 

“Yes, we've been able to get the majority of those who were in the ground floor and first floor out, but unfortunately, some of them sustained burns and others are still trapped inside. The first responders are still trying to get to where they are.” She answered him.

 

“What exactly is going on? How did this even happen?” He asked her, his face contorted in distress, his hands gesturing helplessly.

 

“Sincerely, I don't know,” She replied, shaking her head and biting her lip, her eyes filled with concern. “The responders are trying their best but we can't seem to find the source of the fire, which is making it so difficult to quench the fire quickly.” She added, concerned.

 

“So, what do we do?” He asked. He then continued, “We can't just sit back and watch as the whole place is about to burn to the-”

 

They suddenly heard the loud sound of shattering glass and crumbling wood filling the air, accompanied by the acrid smell of smoke and burning debris. Everyone at the scene, including the people who stood far off, shook in fear and shouted in shock. The smell of burning fabrics and papers also filled the air, which hinted that the fabric stores and bookshops were already burning.

 

One of the emergency responders hurriedly ran to the incident commander, 

 

“Sir, a part of the second floor just caved in. It will be difficult to get to the third floor at this rate.” He said urgently, his face stained with soot and sweat, his voice cracking with concern as his face locked intensely on the commander as he waited for orders on what to do next.

 

“We're going to go with plan B then, we have no choice.” The commander said to him and he nodded.

 

“Huh? What is the plan B you're talking about?” Beta Richard couldn't help but ask.

 

“Since we are unable to reach the top floors from the ground because of the fire. We'll have to go in from the last floor, up high. A ladder will be passed from the top and some of the firefighters will have to go in from the top.” The commander explained to him but he couldn't believe his ears.

 

“What?” Beta Richard asked in shock as he and Beta Lily exchanged shocked glances.

 

“Isn't that too dangerous?” He asked, still shocked. “Can't we find another way to get in? Is water not working? Is nothing else working?”

 

“Yes, it is dangerous but nothing else can work at the moment. We really do not have any other choice now. It's either this is done or we lose everything and everyone remaining in there.” He answered. 

 

“And since this market is the biggest one in the southern part, there are still a lot of people trapped in there and if something is not done immediately, the fire will spread to the other areas and we do not want that to happen.” He added, stressing the fact that something has to be done quick and fast.

 

“Damn!” Beta Richard muttered, frustrated at the way things were turning.

 

Truly, the market was the biggest in the southern part and it consisted of numerous stores owned by numerous members of the pack. It had about seven floors which was why it had a whole lot of occupants and many members of the pack were always there, especially those who had a lot of things to buy because the other markets weren't as big as it was.

 

Suddenly a man was heard from the crowd, screaming for access to Bets Richard and the others. They all turned back but they saw the guards holding the man back and so they paid no attention to him.

 

“They have to be careful!” He kept shouting from a distance. “It is extremely dangerous. Hearing me out. Let me talk to them.” He shouted again as he struggled with the guards.

 

“What is going on there? What is wrong with him?” Beta Richard asked the guards.

 

“He keeps saying it is too dangerous and the responders need to be careful. I think he has a store in the market too, I guess he is concerned about his business.” One of the guards answered and Beta Richard looked away but the man didn't stop yelling and screaming his heart out, until Beta Richard had no choice but to hear him out.

 

“Let’s hear what he has to say.” He said and the guards stopped struggling with the man.

 

“Flammable chemicals! Highly flammable chemicals.” The man shouted out loud. “They need to be careful! There are chemicals in my stall.” He screamed to the shock of Beta Richard and all who stood. “It might explode.” He screamed.









Chapter 45


“No way!” Beta Richard exclaimed in shock, “Why didn't you say anything earlier? Why wait until now?” He asked the man.

 

“I didn't know….” The man cried out.

 

“You didn't know what?” Beta Richard asked him, getting impatient.

 

“I didn't know that the fire was going to keep spreading rapidly.” The man replied and Beta Richard shook his head in disappointment. “The chemicals are used in the production of our products but they are flammable in their uncombined state.” The man said, adding more details.

 

“So what do we do now?” Beta Richard asked, turning to the incident commander(IC), his eyes searching for reassurance as the sound of cackling flames and shouting firefighters persistently filled the air.

 

“Exactly, what do we do, IC?” Beta Lily pressed, her voice laced with concern, as she glanced towards the burning building, her eyes squinting through the smoke. 

 

“We have to do something as soon as possible to avoid a greater calamity.” She added.

 

The incident commander nodded thoughtfully, rubbing his forehead, “We have to restrategize,” He said and pulled out a blueprint of the building from his emergency response kit.

 

“Where exactly are these flammable chemicals located?” He asked the man. “I mean, what floor is it?”

 

“The sixth floor. Store 605. The gallons are right at the entrance, beside the door.” He answered quickly and the commander nodded.

 

He then began to study the blueprint intently, as quickly as he could, tracing the layout with his fingers as he marked out certain locations.

 

“Hmmm!” The incident commander mused and took a second look at the burning building, examining the extent of the fire.

 

“The fire is already getting to the third floor, we have to do something right now, sir.” One of the responders suddenly said to him. 

 

“We can make it if we go in through the sixth floor right now, at least we'll be able to get the chemicals before it spreads further.” He added and the commander sighed.

 

“Hold on a moment,” The commander said and walked into the noisy crowd. Shouting above the din, at the top of his voice, he asked, “Is there anyone here who has anything flammable in their stores?”

 

The crowd murmured and looked at each other with uncertainty, exchanging nervous glances. The sound of nervous whispers and shuffling feet also filled the space as some of them stepped back, with their eyes looking towards their own stalls, while others shook their heads vigorously.

 

“Okay, that means it's a little safe for now.” He muttered to himself and walked back to meet the rest of the team members.

 

He turned to the store owner, his eyes narrowing intensely. “How many chemicals are in your store in total?” He asked, his voice firm and commanding. 

 

“We need to know. This will help us to determine how prepared we should be and how many more hands we would be needing.” He said again to the man who didn't look too sure about what he wanted to say.

 

The store owner hesitated, scratching the back of his neck. “I…I’m not entirely sure. He stammered, “but I think there are about nine gallons,” he continued, his voice laced with uncertainty.

 

The commander's expression turned stern. “You think? No, I need the exact amount,” he said firmly, his hands on his hips. “We can't just assume here, there are too many lives at stake for crying out loud.” 

 

“Try to remember.” The commander urged the man, his eyes searching the man's expression for anything possible..

 

The man took a few seconds to think about it before he responded again, “Yes, I'm sure. There are nine gallons.” He said, confidently, his expression, firm and the commander sighed in relief.

 

“Alright!” The commander clapped his hands to get the attention of the rest of the team. 

 

“Listen up team! We have nine gallons of flammable chemicals located at store 605, on the sixth floor, right at the entrance, very close to the door.” He gave out the details to the team members, his voice clear and authoritative and they all nodded in understanding.

 

“You have the go-ahead,” He instructed, his voice firm and sharp. “Go in through the sixth floor and get the chemicals out of there as quickly and safely as possible.”

 

The team responded in unison, “Yes, sir!” their voices, loud and determined.

 

“Alright, let's move, and be cautious!” He ordered, his eyes scanning the surroundings.

 

The team sprang into action, rushing towards the burning building with urgency, while their commander remained outside, his radio in his hand, at the ready, monitoring the situation from outside and preparing to provide further instructions.

 

After about forty five minutes and with constant communication with the commander, the team arrived with the chemicals, safely secured.

 

“Wow. Good job guys.” Beta Richard and Lily commended them all, a bit relieved that they were able to get the chemicals out before those chemicals caused more havoc.

 

“So, what is the next line of action?” Beta Richard soon asked impatiently, his eyes fixed on the commander.

 

The fire kept burning relentlessly and Beta Richard got really worried.

 

“The firefighters are still trying to quench the fire but it's looking like it's a very difficult task.” He said and they all looked at the fire which truly seemed like it wasn't ready to stop spreading any time soon, despite the efforts of the other firefighters.

 

“Yes, the firefighters are struggling to contain the fire,” He replied, “but we need to find its source to truly stop it.” He said to him.

 

“But how do we do that seeing as the whole ground floor to the third floor is still on fire.” One of the team members quickly spoke up.

 

“So, what do you advise?” The commander asked him but before he could answer, the firefighters’ team leader ran to the commander.

 

“Sir, the fire keeps spreading. The water doesn't seem to be having so much effect on it. I'm afraid it might get out of hand if we don't do something different.” He voiced his worries and the commander sighed.

 

“Sir, I was thinking, we could counter the fire from both ends. Half of the team could start from the top, while the second half, from the bottom, will counter the fire using AQUEOUS FILM FORMING FOAM(AFFF), instead of water on high-intensity areas on the ground floor.” The team member answered the commander's question.

 

He carefully analyzed his plan, while the commander listened attentively, analyzing the situation in his head also.

 

“Increasing the pressure of the water, we counter the fire from the top, stopping it from spreading there.” He continued.

 

“Countering it from both ends with different fire suppressants? The ground and the top. Is that what you're saying?” The commander asked him.

 

“Yes, commander. That way we would be able to prevent the fire from spreading and find the source of the fire.” He answered and the commander nodded in agreement.

 

“Yes, that's perfect. I think that should solve the problem.” The commander commented.

 

“High water pressure from the top and AFFF from the bottom. Can you make that happen?” The commander asked, turning to the team leader of the fire team.

 

The team leader nodded, “Yes, sir. By attacking from both ends, we can definitely contain the fire and identify its source.”

 

“Perfect! Get everything prepared, we begin in three minutes.” He ordered and they immediately got to what they were instructed to do.

 

In exactly three minutes, the fire fighters and the other team members immediately got to work, doing their best to ensure that the fire was contained, while everyone watched on, hoping that this time, their efforts would yield something positive.

 

“Richard?” Beta Lily suddenly called her husband, who was standing beside her.

 

“Yes?” He answered, turning to her and at the same time, taking quick glances at the burning building and the firefighters at work.

 

“I don't know if it's just me. Maybe I'm overthinking it or something. But I don't know why I feel like this is not some ordinary fire. I feel strongly that this could have been an intentional act. I mean, with how serious this whole thing is, it seems like it is beyond what it looks like.” She voiced her concerns and her husband nodded in agreement.

 

“You know, I didn't want to scare you, that's why I haven't said anything about it yet. This is very different from the other fires that we have seen in the past.” He replied, speaking about his concerns too.

 

“And those weren't this difficult to contain.” She added and he nodded in agreement.

 

“But we can't just jump to conclusions. We have to see evidence before concluding.” He said, looking at the fire which now looked like it was getting contained little by little.

 

“I agree. I hope it is not what I think it is though, but I feel it strongly and my instincts are never wrong, you know.” She said to him again, a bit confident and he became lost in thoughts.

 

After what seemed like an hour, the fire was finally put out, and the people, although sad about their lost properties, cheered the firefighters for a job well done.

 

“Check for casualties immediately. Search every corner!” He ordered the first responders who immediately rushed into the building but came out after a long while.

 

“Thankfully, there are no other casualties aside from the ones who have been transported to the hospital hours ago.” One of the responders said and they all sighed.

 

“Okay, well done.” The commander commended them as they went back to the ambulance.

 

Rushing towards the commander shortly after, one of the firefighters exclaimed, “We've identified the cause of the fire!” 

 

With his face completely stained with soot from being in close contact with the fire, he paused for a moment to catch his breath. “It appears to be a deliberate act, but the perpetrator tried to make it look like an accident.” He added, and as soon as Beta Richard, Lily heard, they exchanged serious glances as they didn't want to believe that they heard the right thing.

 

“Are you sure about what you just said?” Beta Richard immediately asked, walking towards the young man.

 

“Yes, Beta. I'm very sure.” He replied confidently and Beta Richard frowned because this could only mean one thing- The pack was under attack!







Chapter 46


“A highly flammable oil was used in one of the stores in the market,” The firefighter revealed, holding up the charred remains of a burnt can of oil for Beta Richard to examine. “That was what set the place on fire and the fire quickly spread to other places because there were fabrics, books in the library, planks and other materials which aided its quick spread.” He continued, explaining carefully to Beta Richard and the others.

 

“Hmmmmm!” Beta Richard sighed, “But how are you sure that it was a deliberate act?” Beta Richard asked him, his brow furrowing in concern as he scrutinized the can of flammable oil in the firefighter's hand.

 

“Sir,” the firefighter continued, “this type of oil is very rare and can't just be found in any pack.” He explained, his voice filled with certainty, as someone who definitely knew what he was talking about.

 

“It is usually imported and only available on specific orders due to its high tendency to explode even at the slightest spark.” He paused and checked the damage around them. “Judging from the damage done, I'm very sure of what I am saying.” He continued, confidently.

 

“And from what we were able to gather from some witnesses, they said they heard a loud bang and a sweet smell filled the air, and after that, the fire started immediately. This is an important characteristic feature of this type of oil. During production, the manufacturers usually add sweet and pleasing fragrances to it, so that no one would be suspicious wherever it is used.” He explained further. 

 

“This is why it is sometimes tagged as “the ultimate murder weapon”. He added, whispering and Beta Richard was taken aback.

 

“But how do you know so much about all this?” Beta Richard asked as he stared at the firefighter suspiciously, with his arms folded across his chest.

 

“Oh, this young man is one of a kind.” The commander immediately came to the rescue. “He has travelled far and wide and studied a lot, so he knows so much about these things.” He cleared the air and Beta Richard nodded.

 

“Oh, little wonder why he is a firefighter.” Beta Richard said and the firefighter smiled. “Thank you so much for the information.”

 

He then turned to the commander, “I'll see to it that this case is investigated further,” Beta Richard said again as he nodded thoughtfully. He could feel the weight of impending danger pressing down on him. “Thank you very much.”

 

Surveying the scene one more time and with a sense of finality, the commander said, “With that being cleared and the fire completely put out, I think we can pack up our gear and be on our way back to the station now.” 

 

“Yes, you can,” Beta Richard replied, his voice calm, despite the chaos in his mind. “Thank you, Commander.” He said and the commander nodded in acknowledgement.

 

“Guys, pack up! We're leaving now!” The commander announced to the rest of the team. 

 

They all chorused, “Yes sir,” and began to dismantle their equipment.

 

As the responders and emergency teams prepared to depart, Beta Lily leaned closer and whispered nervously to her husband, her voice barely audible over the responders clanging equipment. “You know what this means, right?” She asked, her eyes wide with worry.

 

Beta Richard remained silent, disturbed and lost in his thoughts, as he watched as the responders and all the emergency teams pack their gears up to leave.

 

Seeing his lack of response, Beta Lily turned to him again, urgency creeping into her voice. “You're not saying anything, Richard. You know what this means, right?”

 

This time,  Beta Lily's words seemed to snap him back to reality.

 

“Of course I do, Lily,” he finally replied, his eyes scanning their surroundings as he grabbed her by the arm and pulled her to a quieter corner away from prying ears. 

 

His grip was firm but gentle, “I understand more than anyone, but you don’t expect me to announce right there that the pack might be under attack, do you? It would make the people afraid. It will spread panic, Lily. That's why I'm trying as much as I can to remain composed.”

 

Beta Lily’s worry deepened as she searched his eyes for reassurance. “I know this; I just don’t like the way I’m feeling about this,” She confessed, her voice laced with anxiety. “What do we do now, Richard?”

 

Richard took a deep breath, his mind racing with different thoughts and possibilities. “I need to gather more information but before then, I have to inform the Alpha.” He said firmly, determination replacing his earlier uncertainty. 

 

“I have to go now.” He said and began to leave but she caught him by his arm, stopping him.

 

“Wait, can I come with you?” She asked, with a determined look on her face.

 

“There will be no need for that. Just wait here and finish up with them.” He said.

 

“Help the guards put the people in order and tell them to go home. There is nothing anyone can do in the market today.” He added as he took one more look at the burnt building.

 

“Okay, be safe.” She said to him and he nodded and left immediately, driving his car at top speed as he headed to the Alpha’s palace to tell him all that had happened.

 

 

 

**STEVE'S HOUSE**

 

“Do you think it's a good idea, staying here without doing anything?” Veronica asked Megan, sounding extremely worried.

 

“I really don't know. I'm really confused and worried.” Megan answered, staring at nothing in particular.

 

They had been waiting in Steve's house for hours since he was taken away, hoping that he was going to come back soon but it seemed like that wasn't going to happen since they were yet to hear from him and they didn't know his fate. They kept hoping that the matter had not become complicated, while Megan kept hoping that Steve hadn't complicated the issue by himself.

 

Both of them sighed heavily as they kept thinking of ways out. Veronica couldn't be of much help, since she was still a stranger in the pack and was even yet to get the approval to stay in the pack. So, there was absolutely nothing she could physically do to help.

 

“Is there no one we can call?” Veronica suddenly asked her. “I mean, if there's anyone we can call to give us information on Steve's whereabouts or what has happened to him, I think we'll know where to channel our thoughts and actions from there on.” Veronica suggested and at that moment, Megan remembered something.

 

“Yes!” She said sharply. “How could I not think about that?” She said as she picked up her phone from the table where she had dropped it earlier due to her frustration.

 

“Do you by chance have someone like that?” Veronica asked her, to be sure of what Megan was trying to do.

 

“Yes, as a matter of fact, I do.” Megan answered confidently, looking away from her phone.

 

“Oh, thank goodness. Who is it?” Veronica asked calmly.

 

“My dad.” She replied. “He is one of the respected wolves in this pack, who has direct access to the Alpha.” Megan spoke of her father, proudly. “He also gets important information about the pack, so he should know what happened.” She added.

 

“Oh, wow. That's so great.” Veronica responded, smiling as a tiny ray of hope ignited in her heart. “You're really lucky.” She said again and Megan smiled proudly.

 

“Of course, I am. You know, I always wonder what it felt like to be just an ordinary wolf with no respectable background but I can't relate because thankfully, I wasn't born as just a mere wolf.” Megan said proudly and Veronica smiled with the corner of her lip.

 

It became clear to Veronica at that moment that Megan was so proud to be the daughter of a respected and influential wolf in the pack. She silently wished that she had a father who she could call as well. Even if he wouldn't be influential, she really would have loved him all the same, but it seemed like life hadn't been too nice to her because she didn't even know who her parents were. Some people told her that she was abandoned by her parents because they had no use for her, while some others, for some strange reasons, believed that they were dead, which was why she showed up alone in her previous pack,looking homeless.

 

"You can call him and he'll tell you what happened, right?” Veronica asked her.

 

“Yes, that's exactly what I'm going to do right away.” She replied and began to dial her father's number which rang but wasn't picked up.

 

She called again and still, the line kept ringing but no one answered.

 

“That's strange.” Megan muttered.

 

“What is going on?” Veronica asked, concerned, as she could see the change in Megan's expression. “Is the call not connecting?” She asked further.

 

“I don't understand. It's ringing but he is just picking up.” She answered, facing Veronica. “This hardly happens.” She complained.

 

“I think you should try again. Maybe he is busy.” Veronica suggested to her and she nodded.

 

She called his number the third time and he immediately picked up this time, making her sigh in relief.

 

“Phew! You got me worried, Dad. What happened? I've been calling you.” She said in a rush as soon as he picked.

 

“I'm sorry, Megan. I was so busy.” He answered.

 

“So busy that you couldn't pick your precious daughter's call? Really, dad?” She complained, with a frown on her face.

 

“I’m sorry. You know I'll never ignore your call if it wasn't because of something important.” He said to her. “What do you want?” He asked.

 

“It's about Steve, dad. I'm just curious, he hasn't come back since the guards took him to the Alpha's palace earlier.” She said, her voice filled with concern but as she was speaking, she noticed a change in her father's voice and she immediately asked.

 

“Dad? Are you okay? Your voice sounds different. Is anything the matter?” She asked in a rush.

 

“Megan, a lot is happening in the pack at the moment. The Alpha has ordered for Steve to be thrown into the dungeon.” He said and Megan couldn't believe her ears.

 

She sprung to her feet as she exclaimed, “What? Why? What did he do wrong? For how long?” while Veronica immediately stood up, concerned too.

 

“Look, Megan, I can't go into full details at the moment because something else happened right after.” He said further.

 

“What again?” She asked, her voice becoming shaky.

 

“The southern pack market. It suddenly caught on fire and has been burning for hours.” He revealed, throwing Megan into further shock. “In fact, the fire was put out not long ago.” He added.

 

“Oh my goodness! That's terrible. How did it happen? What exactly is going on?” She kept asking numerous questions.

 

“I have to go now, I'll talk to you later.” He said hurriedly and before Megan could say anything else, he ended the call.

 

“Why is all this happening all of a sudden? Nothing seems to be going as planned at all and it is happening too fast.” Megan cried out, as she dropped herself on the chair roughly, while Veronica quickly sat with her, confused about what was going on.







Chapter 47


“Megan, please talk to me. What is going on?” Veronica asked as calmly as possible even though she was completely scared and her anxiety was shooting through the roof. Her heart, racing with every passing second.

 

She wished Megan had put the call on loudspeaker, so she would have heard the whole conversation with her dad and there would have been no need for her to start asking questions from Megan, who was now looking so devastated with tears welling up in her eyes.

 

But at the same time, she understood that it was a conversation between a father and his child and it should be somewhat private. So she respected her privacy.

 

As Megan began to cry, Veronica became so confused, not knowing what to do or what words to say that wouldn't complicate the present situation or worsen it.

 

“Megan, can you please talk to me? What did your dad say? Is Steve fine?” Veronica kept asking, her voice filled with concern but Megan just kept crying, her cries getting louder.

 

Crouching in front of Megan and holding her hands, Veronica spoke again, “Please you have to talk to me so that we can know what to do next. Please, the suspense is killing me. Please, Megan. Just calm down, please.” She begged her.

 

After much persuasion, Megan finally calmed down a bit and wiped her tears.

 

Seeing as Megan slowly composed herself, wiping her tears with the back of her hand, Veronica seized the opportunity to ask her again, “What did your dad say? Did he get any information about Steve?” She asked calmly, her eyes intently locked in Megan’s eyes, like it held the answers to her question.

 

Megan sniffled, her voice barely above a whisper. “Yes, he did.”

 

“Okay?” Veronica squinted, her uncertainty deepening, “What did he say?” Veronica pressed, her brow furrowed, not sure of what Megan was going to say about the issue at hand.

 

Tears began to pour out of her eyes once again, and Veronica tightened her grip gently on her hands, “Breathe Megan, please take a deep breath.” Veronica urged her, gently and she did as Veronica told her and was able to calm down once again.

 

“My dad said the Alpha ordered for Steve to be thrown into the dungeon.” Her words tumbled out 

 

“He said the Alpha ordered Steve to be thrown into the dungeon.” Megan's words tumbled out in a rush as she tried to fight the tears which were threatening to spill from her eyes once again.

 

Veronica's eyes widened in shock as she sprung to her feet. “What?! Just because he had a fight?” Her voice echoed through the room as her gaze remained on Megan, searching for answers.

 

“Why would he do such a thing just because of a mere fracas between two young men?” She asked further, unable to believe that Steve was punished that severely just because he had a fight and punched someone in the face.

 

She then began to pace across the room, her footsteps echoing with every step she took.

 

“I know he is the Alpha and Yes, I know that what Steve did was wrong. He shouldn't have punched Trey but he was provoked and couldn't keep his emotions in check at that moment. I think he is being unfairly punished. This is not fair at all.”

 

“How can the Alpha be so ruthless? I thought the one at my previous pack was ruthless but I'm beginning to fear for my life here.” She muttered. “Steve punched someone in the face, that's all. It was not like he committed such a heinous and unforgivable crime.” She complained further.

 

“You don't understand how things are done here, Veronica. You don't know the Alpha that is why you're talking this way.” Megan said to her, wiping the lingering tears from her eyes.

 

“Yes, I don't know him and I don't know how things are done here, but sincerely speaking, I feel like this is unjust. He shouldn't have been thrown into the dungeon just like that.” Veronica replied.

 

“I actually agree with you but I guess there are some things that we don't have a say over.” Megan said but Veronica didn't stop pacing.

 

“Why the dungeon, of all places though? Isn't that where hardened criminals and offenders are kept?” Veronica asked her.

 

“Yes, you're right.” Megan said.

 

“So why should he be treated like a criminal when it was all a minor issue between two people?” Veronica asked, as she found it hard to believe that Alpha Marcus could do such a thing.

 

She paused and stopped pacing for a moment and turned to look at Megan, “Megan, is that how your Alpha does here? He just dishes out any punishment even when your offence is not a serious one?” She asked.

 

“Not exactly.” Megan replied.

 

“Then why is Steve's case different?” Veronica asked, standing akimbo.

 

“You see, the Alpha can be very strict but you see, whenever it comes to issues pertaining to Steve, he is always extra hard on him. Also, dad said he challenged his authority or something. I don't know the full details.” Megan revealed, not going into too much detail.

 

“But why?” Veronica asked further, with a confused look on her face. “I don't seem to understand.”

 

Megan thought for a second about the perfect answer to give to Veronica that wouldn't reveal too much information about the relationship between Steve and the Alpha.

 

“I have no idea. It has just been that way for years.” She lied to Veronica, who then continued to pace, trying to understand but failing.

 

She then stopped pacing and took her seat beside Megan, “So, what do we do? What is going to happen now? Is your dad going to plead with the Alpha on Steve's behalf?” Veronica asked her and waited expectantly for a positive response from Megan but she sighed instead.

 

“What is it? He can't?” Veronica asked, puzzled.

 

“I think he will eventually, but for now I think there are other pressing pack issues.” Megan replied, leaning back into the chair.

 

“Oh, is everything okay though?” Veronica asked, with concern.

 

“I really don't know. He said the southern pack market caught on fire a few hours ago.” Megan answered and Veronica's eyes widened in shock. “In fact, he said the fire was put out not long ago.” She added.

 

Megan’s voice cracked as she continued, “Of all the markets in this pack, that's the biggest market in the pack and because of the fire, a lot of the people's properties and means of livelihood have been destroyed.” 

 

As Megan spoke further, Veronica's eyes grew wider, “Oh no, that's such a devastating and disheartening news.” Her hands flew to her mouth, covering it.

 

“All those families relying on the market for survival are now left with nothing…” Her voice trailed off as her heart went out to those affected by the fire.

 

“Exactly, they are now left empty.” Megan said in support. “Some now have injured family members in the hospital.” She added, staring at nothing in particular.

 

“Now they would want answers, they would want a solution and the only person who they feel will be able to provide it is the Alpha.” She said as she thought deeply about it.

 

After thinking so much about the whole issue on ground, Megan spoke again, “I really don't know what is going on lately. It all seems like the pack is under some sort of curse or something. I don't even know what to think anymore.” She said, worriedly.

 

And at that moment, Veronica began to hear strange voices speaking loudly in her head. Veronica's gaze drifted from Megan, her mind racing and it felt like she was being transported to another place.

 

Suddenly, a harmony of strange voices exploded in her mind.

 

“Can you see that you're the cause of all the misfortunes?" The voice boomed, as it echoed through her thoughts.

 

Veronica's eyes snapped shut, she then pressed her hands on her temples as if to block out the intrusive thoughts that flooded her mind because of the strange voices.

 

“You truly attract problems wherever you are,” the voice continued, its tone so spiteful. “You've only stayed here for a few days, and there's a problem erupting from every part of the pack. You have brought your curse upon them too.”

 

Megan, who noticed Veronica's sudden silence, turned to look at her but saw that her eyes were completely shut. With a concerned expression asked, “Veronica, what's wrong? Are you okay?”

 

In just a matter of minutes, Veronica's forehead immediately had beads of sweat and her breath became intense, “I...I hear voices,” she stammered.

 

The voice in her head persisted. “You have not only brought problems to the one who brought you into this pack. You have also brought misfortunes to the pack at large. Everyone is paying dearly because of you.”

 

“No…no, it's not my fault.” She muttered under her breath, while Megan stared at her in confusion. 

 

“No!!!” She suddenly screamed out, trying to shut out the voice as her eyes snapped open, with fear burning within.

 

Getting scared, Megan grasped Veronica's arm. “What's happening to you? You're scaring me, Veronica.” She said, with fear laced all over her voice.

 

Veronica's gaze locked onto Megan's. “I don't know.” She struggled to answer Megan as she closed eyes again and covered her ears with her hands.

 

The voice in her head laughed maniacally. “Deny it all you want, but the truth remains. You don't belong here. You are the harbinger of doom!” Everything then became silent immediately.







Chapter 48


“Are you sure about this, Richard?” Alpha Marcus asked Beta Richard who nodded positively.

 

“I'm positive. From the evidence found at the scene, I'm very sure that it was a deliberate act.” Beta Richard spoke with confidence. “The oil that was found was placed strategically. The fire was set on the floor where there were fabric stores and food stores, knowing well how often the food stores used matchsticks. There are also book stores on that floor.” Beta Richard explained carefully.

 

“Hmmmmm!” Alpha Marcus mused as he thought deeply about it.

 

“So there was no way it wouldn't have happened with all those stores filled with materials which could start a fire and help it spread quickly.” Alpha Marcus said and Beta Richard snapped his fingers.

 

“Exactly, now you get it.” Beta Richard said to him.

 

As soon as he got to the palace from the fire scene, Beta Richard had informed Alpha Marcus of everything that happened and all the information that he had been able to gather but Alpha Marcus was finding it so hard to believe. He couldn't believe that anyone would have the effrontery to come into his pack and do such a thing.

 

“But who would even dare to do something like this? What effrontery!” Alpha Marcus said in disbelief.

 

“I'm also confused but I've instructed the warriors to carry out thorough investigation and get me information as soon as possible. Especially from our rival packs. I have a feeling that this might be their doing and they possibly have something bigger up their sleeves.” Beta Richard said to him, with a serious look on his face and Alpha Marcus nodded in agreement.

 

“Perfect! I need word from them as soon as possible. If there will be a need to have extra hands, they should do so. We need to make a move quickly and fast.” Alpha Marcus ordered and Beta Richard nodded as he immediately took out his phone and relayed the Alpha's orders to the warriors.

 

“I think we should also see to it that what is left of the market after the fire, is kept secure.” Beta Richard suggested to him and he immediately agreed.

 

“Well said, that must be done as soon as possible. We need to also devise means in which the pack can be kept safe, both members and properties.” Alpha Marcus added.

 

“Yes, that must be done too.” Beta Richard nodded in agreement.

 

As Alpha Marcus and Beta Richard were still discussing ways to help and secure the pack, a knock at the door interrupted them. It was Murphy, one of the leaders of the warriors.

 

“Yes, come in.” Alpha Marcus said and he rushed in and bowed before the Alpha.

 

“What is the matter? How did the investigation go? Did you find anything meaningful?” Beta Richard asked him.

 

“Yes sir, I have urgent news,” He said, his expression cold. “Scouts have reported a rival pack, the Shadow Moon pack, lurking at our borders. They're seeking to exploit our vulnerability after the market fire.” He said.

 

Alpha Marcus and his Beta exchanged quick glances, and with eyes narrowed, Beta Richard asked, “What do they want?”

 

Murphy hesitated before he began to speak, “They're claiming that our pack's ancestors made a pact with theirs, trading land for protection. But our pack never upheld their end of the bargain.”

 

“Pact? What is he talking about?” Beta Richard asked Alpha Marcus, who was looking confused.

 

Alpha Marcus’ brow furrowed. “What pact? I have never heard of anything like that. What pact are you talking about?” Alpha Marcus asked.

 

Murphy's voice dropped to a whisper, “They said the pack's founders made a deal with the Shadow Moon's Alpha, years ago, to ensure our pack's survival. But the terms were never disclosed, and the records were lost in a fire... until now.” He explained.

 

Alpha Marcus’ eyes widened, “This also confirms that the market fire wasn't an accident, right?” He asked Murphy and he nodded.

 

“Yes, Alpha. It wasn't an accident.” He confirmed.

 

“There is a high possibility that the Shadow Moon pack orchestrated the fire to expose our pack's secret and claim what they believe is rightfully theirs.” He continued and Alpha Marcus sprung to his feet.

 

“What rightfully belongs to them? They must really be delusional at this point.” He said angrily. “And what useless secrets are they even talking about?” Alpha Marcus asked him.

 

“Calm down, Alpha. I think I'm beginning to understand the way things are turning out.” Beta Richard suddenly said.

 

“What do you mean?” He asked him.

 

“Well, Shadow Moon pack seems to know a lot about our pack, don't you think?” He asked the Alpha, who thought for a while but could not get the hint.

 

“What are you driving at, Richard?” Alpha Marcus asked him, still not getting what Beta Richard was trying to say.

 

“What I'm trying to say is that Shadow Moon seems to know so much about our pack. It is only someone who knows a lot about this pack from years ago, who will know how important that market is. Yes, to others, it is just a big market, but we both know that it is more than just that.” Beta Richard pointed out and Alpha Marcus began to nod as he began to understand what his Beta was trying to point out.

 

“If the rival pack knows so much about the pack’s secret, it only means one thing…” Beta Richard said and paused for a moment.

 

“There is a traitor in the pack.” Alpha Marcus completed Richard's statement.

 

“Firstly, we need to investigate this pact and the Shadow Moon Pack’s claim.” Alpha Marcus said.

 

“Murphy, get your best men and dig up every single record that you can find in the Pack's vaults and get it to me as soon as possible.” He ordered and Murphy immediately nodded in understanding and left.

 

An hour and half later, Murphy came rushing back into the palace with more news. Seeing him, Alpha Marcus who wasn't at peace sprung to his feet.

 

“Do you have the records yet?” Alpha Marcus impatiently asked him.

 

“No, Alpha. We searched the whole archives and the pack's historical vaults but nothing was found. It seems to have been taken away.” He revealed and Beta Richard and Alpha Marcus couldn't believe their ears.

 

“What?! How is that even possible?” Beta Richard asked him. “Was the vault broken into?” He asked further.

 

“Yes sir. It appears so.” Murphy replied, disappointed.

 

“You incompetent fools!” Beta Richard yelled angrily.

 

“I'm so sorry, sir. I take full responsibility.” Captain Murphy apologized, bowing his head.

 

How did it happen? How could they let this happen?” Beta Richard asked angrily.

 

“I questioned the guards and they said it happened while the fire was being put out. Since every team had been dispatched to the scene of the fire, there were less hands at the Vault. He claimed that someone in a mask attacked him and knocked him out. He then broke into the vault. He said when he woke up, he only saw the vault open but he didn't know that anything was taken away until we began the search for the records.” Captain Murphy explained.

 

“So the fire was a diversion so that they could sneak into the vaults just to take the records?” Alpha Marcus asked as he thought about it.

 

“We shouldn't conclude that that is the case yet. For all we care, it could be a two way thing. They might be after the secret beneath the market and the records too.” Beta Richard said, not completely agreeing with Alpha Marcus’ point of view.

 

“But one thing is certain, the traitor walks amongst us.” Beta Richard said confidently, his eyes determined and serious.

 

Suddenly one of the scouts who had been keeping watch on the border rushed in, 

 

“There has been increased activity along the borders. We believe it's the Shadow Moon Pack’s warriors.” The scout reported and Alpha Marcus immediately turned to face Beta Richard.

 

“Mobilize our warriors. Tell the other warriors to join forces with the security team. The pack must be kept safe at all costs. The pack’s security must be heightened. We don't know what the Shadow Moon Pack has up their sleeves and we don’t know what they are capable of doing. We need to prepare and be at high alert.” He ordered fiercely.

 

“The Alpha's voice thundered through the palace, echoing off the stone walls. “An announcement must be made immediately!” He bellowed, his words laced with urgency.

 

“Tell the pack members to remain indoors,” He instructed, his gaze sweeping the room. “Parents should keep their children home. Spouses, siblings, everyone should stay inside!”

 

His voice grew more commanding, reverberating through the halls. “No one comes in, and no one goes out until we've sorted this chaos.”

 

The air seemed to vibrate with his authority, and every member scrambled to obey. Guards rushed to spread the word, their footsteps pounding the floors.

 

Beta Richard nodded and prepared to leave when Alpha Marcus gave another instruction.

 

“Also, every household must be searched. All hands must be on deck! The traitor must be found immediately!” He added, his voice louder and his eyes changing colour.

 


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