The night air was thick with tension. A faint breeze rustled the leaves, but it did little to ease the weight pressing down on Tolu's shoulders. The battle with Olumide's warriors had left them battered, their bodies aching, but there was no time to rest.
They needed allies.
Tolu sat on a fallen log, watching the flickering flames of their campfire. His pack members were close by, exhaustion visible in their faces. Ope stood near the edge of the camp, his sharp eyes scanning the dark forest for any sign of danger. Jimi was sitting cross-legged, wrapping his injured arm with a torn piece of cloth, wincing as he pulled it tight.
Kemi sighed. "We can't keep running like this. We need a plan."
Tolu nodded. "Tomorrow, we head to the Palam Pack."
Jide raised an eyebrow. "You sure they'll help?"
"They have to," Tolu replied. "Olumide is becoming reckless. He's not just a threat to us—he's a threat to every pack. If they don't act now, it'll be too late."
Silence fell over the group. They all knew what was at stake.
Jimi exhaled sharply. "Palam Pack respected your father. If they still hold his name in high regard, they won't turn you away."
Tolu clenched his fists. His father's legacy still lingered in the hearts of many, but would that be enough?
For now, all they could do was try.
---
A Dangerous Journey
The morning sun cast a golden glow over the forest as they moved swiftly through the undergrowth. Every step was calculated, their senses alert for any signs of danger.
The Palam Pack's territory was across the river, beyond the hills. They were known for their neutrality and wisdom, avoiding conflicts unless necessary. But if anyone could stand against Olumide, it was them.
Ope suddenly raised a hand, signaling for them to stop. His eyes narrowed. "Something's wrong."
Tolu's instincts flared.
Then—
A sharp whistle cut through the air.
"Move!" Tolu shouted.
Arrows rained down from the trees. The pack scattered, dodging the deadly projectiles. Shadows moved between the trees—Olumide's warriors.
"They must have tracked us!" Jide growled, unsheathing his claws.
Tolu didn't hesitate. He lunged at the nearest enemy, his claws extending as he slashed through the air. The warrior dodged, countering with a swift strike of his blade. Tolu barely managed to twist out of the way, feeling the sharp edge graze his arm.
Kemi fought beside Jide, the two moving in perfect synchronization. Ope was a blur of movement, taking down one warrior with a precise strike to the throat. Jimi, though still weak, held his ground, his attacks more defensive but just as effective.
But they were outnumbered.
Tolu gritted his teeth. They needed to break through—fast.
"Follow me!" he called.
He charged forward, breaking through the enemy's formation. His pack followed, pushing through the chaos. The warriors tried to block their escape, but they were too slow.
Then—
A deep growl echoed through the forest.
Tolu skidded to a halt.
From the shadows, a towering figure emerged. His presence alone commanded silence. His silver-streaked hair and piercing golden eyes marked him as someone of importance.
The Alpha of the Palam Pack.
"Enough," he said, his voice calm but firm.
At once, the warriors stopped attacking, lowering their weapons.
Tolu exhaled, his chest heaving.
They had made it.
---
An Audience with the Alpha
The Palam Pack's village was a sight to behold. Nestled deep within the forest, it blended seamlessly with nature. Wooden huts lined the paths, and warriors patrolled the area, their expressions unreadable.
Tolu and his pack were led to a large hall where the Alpha, Adetokunbo, sat upon a carved wooden throne. His gaze was sharp, assessing.
Tolu stepped forward, kneeling respectfully. "Alpha."
Adetokunbo studied him for a long moment. "You have your father's eyes."
Tolu stiffened. "You knew him?"
The Alpha nodded. "We fought together once. He was a great man." His expression darkened. "And his death was… unfortunate."
Tolu clenched his fists.
"I assume you're here because of Olumide," Adetokunbo continued.
Tolu met his gaze. "He stole my birthright. He killed my father and drove my mother away. I will not let him keep what isn't his."
The Alpha leaned forward. "And you expect me to help you?"
Silence stretched between them.
Jide stepped forward. "Olumide isn't just a threat to us. He's a threat to all packs. You've seen his ambition. If he isn't stopped, he'll bring war to everyone."
Kemi added, "The signs are there. You know it's true."
Adetokunbo's expression remained unreadable. Then he sighed. "Olumide is powerful. If I support you, I risk my own pack's safety."
Tolu didn't hesitate. "But if you don't, he'll come for you anyway. You know he won't stop."
A tense pause.
Then, slowly, the Alpha nodded.
"You're right."
Relief washed over Tolu.
"I will offer warriors," Adetokunbo said, "but not for free."
Tolu straightened. "What do you want?"
The Alpha's lips curled into a knowing smile.
"A test. One that will prove you are worthy of leading, not just fighting."
Tolu's jaw tightened. "What kind of test?"
Adetokunbo's eyes gleamed.
"You'll see."
---
The Trial Begins
The next morning, Tolu and his pack stood before a massive gorge. The river below was wild and unforgiving, jagged rocks lining its surface.
The Alpha stood nearby, arms crossed.
"To lead," he said, "you must understand sacrifice. Your test is simple—cross to the other side."
Tolu frowned. "That's it?"
Adetokunbo smirked. "Without using your wolf."
Tolu's eyes widened.
No enhanced strength. No speed. No claws.
Just raw human ability.
He looked at the others. They were strong, but this was different.
And that was the point.
Tolu took a deep breath, then stepped forward.
It was time to prove himself.
It might seem like a simple test but it was far from it. He also thought about the consequences of his failure. He can't afford to fail no matter what he must succeed. All he has to do now is find a way to succeed or else it would all be for nothing.