"Did you ever imagine your life would end up like this, Vanima?"

She chuckled, let out a breath, and replied, "Did I dream about running away from home to spend the rest of my life with the one I loved? Yes, just didn't expect it to be with you transformed into a wolf."

Silence swallowed up the space before Elwin asked, "Do you still miss him?"

Vanima slapped her tail into Elwin's side and said, "Of course I do, and I wouldn't expect any less of you concerning Fraeya. More so when you had to walk away from her, again."

He wrapped his tail around her own and asked, "Still interested in bolstering our ranks?"

She leaned in and nibbled on his ear. "So eager to get started?"

Nevarth laughed in amusement and said, "Must be nice being alpha."

Vanima focused on the three wolves waiting for them and zeroed in on Nevarth. "Careful pup. Don't chew more than you can swallow."

"Swallow what?"

Zaos pounced and pinned Nevarth to the ground and growled, "That's enough questions out of you."

The last veteran Elwin could rely on let the pup go and asked, "Where is Cithrel?"

In his most commanding tone, he growled out, "I told her to stay behind."

Zaos and Samblar bowed in submission. "Yes, Alpha."

Elwin moved in toward Nevarth but halted in disbelief when the wolf asked, "But how can she sire pups if she's stuck alone in a town full of elves?"

Never missing a beat, Vanima cooed, "Are you volunteering?"

If a wolf could blush, Elwin was certain Nevarth would be, backing away in silence. Satisfied, he said, "I'm sure Cithrel is more than capable of returning to the forest when she is ready to find a mate."

Strolling past the embarrassed wolf, Elwin asked, "You can wait for her, right?"

Nevarth stumbled backward startled, bit his tongue, and tripped over his leg before landing face-first in the dirt. Vanima pawed at the young wolf wheezing in pain and asked, "What did you say to him? I think you broke Nevarth."

Elwin only shook his head and moved on, offering a final comment. "If he can't keep his tongue in his mouth, how will he ever manage to stay in Siraye?"

"Elwin!" Vanima shook her head and said, "Leave the pup alone. You've had your fun."

The group fell silent as they continued deeper into the forest toward their den, Elwin out in front.

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Ignoring the others, Elwin contemplated his life since he became a wolf.

Before becoming a wolf, I never imagined that the forest inhabitants could be anything other than instinct-driven animals. That notion was challenged when I found myself clashing with the soul of a wolf inside one body. The initial run-ins with the local wildlife cemented that belief.

I let go of my fear and two souls became one. The false truths I hid behind were shattered after I defeated Tovar and became the new alpha. Not only did my pack converse with me, but they did it with purpose and intent. I don't know how much influence Vanima or I have had on the pack or even Silvertree. What I can say for sure, is that I am where I belong.

"What are you thinking about?"

A soft voice brought Elwin back to the present and he could feel the heat of Vanima's body brushing against his fur.

"What happened to the wolf spirit that Silvertree paired with you after your transformation?" Elwin asked.

She let the question simmer and replied, "We are kindred sisters who coexist. I can't talk to her, yet our thoughts and emotions are conveyed through our bond strengthened over the years. Why do you ask?"

"I fought against mine for years. In the end, I destroyed the cage and the two of us became one."

Rustling leaves and howls of laughter greeted Elwin and the others upon their return home. The few young pups he had were rolling around in the dirt near the two adult females on guard. When the cubs noticed Vanima, they ran over and she let them tackle her to the ground so they could climb on top.

As he turned to issue orders to Zaos, a mighty buck glided into view, antlers highlighted by the full moon that lit up the night sky.

Silvertree.

His pack bowed in reverence, but not Elwin. He met his god eye to eye.

Your mission is complete. I may grant you one boon. You could return to your people, an elf once more if you so desire.

"I love my mother and care for my people, but this is my family now. My pack. I respect and believe in you but please leave me the jukkete alone."

Vanima gasped, "You would use that kind of language in front of a god?"

Never looking away, Elwin said, "He gave us a choice to become who we are but make no mistake, death was the only alternative for you and me. I served my time and played the part of the hero. I have no desire to fight any more of his battles."

Silvertree nodded.

Rest easy, my child. I do not take offense. Elwin may not admit it, but he still blames me and the other gods for the death of his father. My offer still remains. All you need do is call for me.

Elwin let his head hang down, his only response to the god.

In a flash of blinding light, Silvertree vanished. Vanima pushed the cubs back toward the two female wolves, rejoined Elwin, and said, "Come with me, my love. Let's put this all behind us."

They dashed between the trees enjoying the breeze, the moon guiding their way. Vanima reached the top of a small hill with a clear view of the moon and turned to face Elwin. He joined her and they both looked up to howl at the moon.

***

For those who are blessed to hear the truth, a beautiful melody could be felt dancing with the wind.

Vanima twirled and sang.

We’ve been through the dark

Saving each other and those we love

Ewin smiled and added his voice to the song.

Into a brand-new life

Burning our foes with our faith

Staring into each other's eyes, Vanima sang.

And where you lead Elwin, I will follow

From the mountains of the East to the mystery of tomorrow

Elwin continued.

For the love we share has never faltered

Undeniable

As one, the couple combined their voices to the melody.

Cause this is the feeling we’ve been wishing for

And this is the day we stretch our legs and run

Nothing can stop our true destiny

Ain’t no god gonna break our dream, it's only for you, you, you

True destiny

True destiny

True destiny