Chapter 43

Ethan's POV
"Yes, I'm thirsty and want a drink," I said, longing for the freshness of clean, fresh water.
"Let's stop by the lake over there, there's a water source you can drink," Cleo invited, pointing to the clear water visible between the trees.
A new sense of hope flowed within me as if the lake offered me the next life. I really wanted to get there soon and quench my thirst.
"Cleo, is the lake close to here?" I asked, impatient in my heart.
"Yes, it's up ahead," she replied, her sincere smile adding to my enthusiasm.
I followed her finger, and sure enough, a few steps later, I could already see the sparkling surface of the water. These eyes sparkled seeing the beautiful lake, surrounded by green leaves and a peaceful atmosphere. Without a doubt, my enthusiasm grew even more intense, wanting to immediately dive into the freshness that awaited.
After a few more steps, we finally arrived at the edge of the lake. The beauty of the clear water in front of me made me want to dive in immediately. “Cleo, look how beautiful it is! I can’t wait to feel this freshness!” I said cheerfully, as I prepared to bend down and get some water.
“Be careful, Alpha. Make sure the water is clean before you drink it,” Cleo advised, but her voice also reflected the same enthusiasm.
I stared at the lake, watching the light reflect off the water’s surface. Without waiting any longer, I bent down and felt the freshness of the water touch my lips. The water felt so pure and refreshing, the pangs of thirst that I felt seemed to disappear instantly.
With each sip, I felt more alive, as if all the burdens that had once held me back began to melt away. In this lake, amidst the beauty of nature, I regained my hope.
I smiled at Cleo, grateful for this journey and her presence beside me. “I feel like I’m reborn here. Thank you for bringing me to this beautiful place,” I said, giving an understanding of the happiness I had found.
Cleo just answered with a smile, realizing that this moment was part of a new journey we were on, and it was a step towards the hope and awakening I desired.
I had to meet Elder Rowan soon. My goal was clear: I had to solve all the problems that existed. It was true, the creatures who lived in ancient times were not so tired. They looked strong and trained to face anything that came. However, on the other hand, even though I was an Alpha, I felt tired and almost desperate with such a long journey.
Luckily, Cleo was there to accompany me here, at least making me not feel alone. Her presence gave me encouragement when I felt trapped in trouble.
"Cleo, are you tired?" I asked, noticing her facial expression. Although she had tried very hard to support me, I was also worried about her energy.
Cleo smiled, shaking her head slowly. "Not at all, Ariane. Every step we take toward Elder Rowan is a step toward hope. I would rather be here with you than go back alone," she answered with conviction.
Gratitude flowed back into me hearing her words. The journey was difficult, but Cleo’s support and presence made the burden feel lighter. “Okay, let’s keep going. We can’t give up now,” I said, looking back at the lake once more as a reminder of the fresh hope I had found here.
We continued on our way to our destination, our spirits burning within us.
“We’ll find a way to get through this,” I said, determined to regain the strength I might have hidden within myself, hoping Elder Rowan could give me the insight I needed.
With each step we took, I felt a strong bond between us, trusting that we could overcome the challenges ahead and reach our goal.
I kept walking forward. But I felt like there was no sign that I would soon arrive at Elder Rowan's place. I felt like the rabbit had lied to me. But the rabbit was still walking even though there were some obstacles and I thought about eating the rabbit because I was hungry. I was forced to take a wild chicken because I needed energy to keep walking.
I continued walking by transforming myself into a wolf so I could walk faster.
"Look at the cave over there!" Said the rabbit.
I looked in the direction the rabbit was pointing. "Yes, why?"
"That is where Elder Rowan lives. I can only take you here because we are not allowed to go there.
I nodded. "Okay, thank you very much for your help."
I walked forward with Cleo. I also had to continue the journey to see the Rabbit. There were rules that had to be obeyed at every step. That's where I had to follow the existing rules.
"Alpha, your leg is injured," said Cleo.
I saw your calf was bleeding. I didn’t realize it until now. “It’s okay. I don’t feel any pain.”
“But your blood is black. I’m worried something bad will happen. We still have a long way to go.”