The hum of the engine was a constant backdrop as Opal drove along the winding country roads, the landscape blurring into shades of green and gold under the afternoon sun. She gripped the steering wheel tightly, her knuckles white with the tension she couldn't quite release. With each mile that stretched between her and her brothers, an ache deepened in her chest—a hollow feeling, as if pieces of herself were being left behind on the road.
She glanced in the rearview mirror, half-expecting to see one of her brothers following behind, but the road was empty except for the occasional passing car. A sigh escaped her lips, and she blinked rapidly, willing away the tears that threatened to spill over. *Pull yourself together*, she chastised silently. But the silence in the car was oppressive, a stark contrast to the lively conversations and laughter that usually filled their shared journeys.
Opal reached over to the passenger seat, her fingers brushing against the small charm bracelet her mother had given her that morning. Each charm represented one of her siblings—a tiny silver wolf for Ash, a feather for Forrest, a book for Brooks, a compass for Ridge, and a crescent moon for herself. She traced the crescent moon with her thumb, finding a small measure of comfort in the cool metal.
"I miss you guys already," she whispered, her voice barely audible over the engine's drone.
The radio crackled with static, and she fiddled with the dial, trying to find a station to fill the silence. Snippets of songs and talk shows faded in and out before she gave up, turning it off entirely. The quiet returned, amplifying her swirling thoughts.
*Why did I have to be the one sent furthest away?* she wondered, a mix of frustration and sadness welling up. The Briarcliff Pack was six hours northeast—longer if she hit traffic or stopped to rest. She knew little about them, only that they were allies of her parents and that they resided near the mountains bordering the dense Mistwood Forest.
Her mind drifted back to the morning's farewells. She could still feel the warmth of her brothers' hugs, hear the reassurances in their voices.
"Three weeks will fly by," Ash had said, his silver eyes holding a confidence she wished she shared.
"Before you know it, we'll be together again, causing all sorts of trouble," Forrest had added with a wink.
But as the miles stretched on, three weeks felt like an eternity. Doubt began to creep in. *What if something happens? What if Azeala finds us?*
A knot formed in her stomach at the thought of the witch. The stories she'd heard painted Azeala as a figure out of nightmares—powerful, ruthless, and cunning. Opal shook her head, trying to dispel the fear. *Stay vigilant*, she reminded herself. *Trust in your training.*
But training felt like a thin shield against the unknown.
Her phone buzzed, and she glanced at it, hope fluttering in her chest. A message from Brooks lit up the screen:
"Just checking in. How's the drive?"
A small smile curved her lips. She pulled over to the side of the road before responding.
"Long and quiet. Missing you all already."
Almost immediately, three dots appeared, indicating he was typing.
"Same here. Keep your spirits up. Remember, 'Luna' all is well."
She chuckled softly. Trust Brooks to weave their code words into casual conversation.
"Thanks. Drive safe. 'Luna' here too," she typed back.
She considered calling him, just to hear a familiar voice, but decided against it. They had agreed to limit communication to avoid drawing attention. With a sigh, she tucked the phone away and resumed her journey.
As the sun began to dip toward the horizon, the scenery changed. Rolling hills gave way to denser forests, the trees growing taller and the shadows longer. She consulted the directions Luna Zora had provided, noting that she was nearing the Briarcliff territory.
*Almost there*, she thought, both relieved and anxious.
A wooden sign soon came into view: "Welcome to Briarcliff Territory—Guests Proceed with Caution." The message was clear—outsiders were not necessarily welcome without prior arrangement.
Opal slowed the car as she approached a gated entrance guarded by two imposing figures. Both were tall, muscular men with watchful eyes that tracked her every movement. She rolled down her window as one of them stepped forward.
"State your business," he said curtly.
She offered a polite smile. "I'm Opal, daughter of Alpha Griffin and Luna Zora of the Silvermoon Pack. I believe your Alpha is expecting me."
The guard studied her for a moment before nodding. "Identification?"
She handed over the letter her father had provided, bearing the official seal of their pack. The guard examined it carefully, then handed it back.
"Very well. Follow the main road until you reach the clearing. The pack house is at the center. Alpha Marcus will meet you there."
"Thank you," she replied, rolling up her window as the gates swung open.
Driving through the territory, Opal couldn't help but compare it to her own home. The forest here was denser, the trees older. There was a wildness to the land that both intrigued and unsettled her.
She soon arrived at the clearing—a large open space where a grand house stood, its architecture blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. As she parked and stepped out of the car, she noticed several pack members milling about, their curious gazes fixed on her.
Taking a deep breath, she squared her shoulders and approached the steps leading up to the entrance. Before she could knock, the door opened, revealing a tall man with sharp features and piercing green eyes. His dark hair was streaked with silver at the temples, and he carried himself with an air of authority.
"Opal," he greeted, his voice smooth but lacking warmth. "Welcome to Briarcliff. I am Alpha Marcus."
She offered a respectful nod. "Thank you for having me, Alpha Marcus."
He stepped aside, gesturing for her to enter. "Come in. We have much to discuss."
The interior of the pack house was spacious but sparsely decorated, a stark contrast to the cozy warmth of her own home. As she followed Alpha Marcus down a hallway, she couldn't shake the feeling of being watched.
They entered a study where a woman stood waiting—her features delicate but her eyes shrewd. She smiled thinly as they approached.
"Opal, this is my Beta, Selene," Alpha Marcus introduced.
"Pleasure to meet you," Opal said politely.
"Likewise," Selene replied, though her gaze was assessing.
"Your quarters have been prepared," Alpha Marcus continued. "But first, we need to go over some ground rules."
Opal resisted the urge to sigh. "Of course."
"You are to remain within the main house unless accompanied by a member of my pack," he stated bluntly. "For your safety and ours."
She bristled slightly. "I understand the need for caution, but I was hoping to assist in any way I can."
Selene arched an eyebrow. "Assist? How exactly?"
"I'm trained in combat and strategy," Opal explained. "I thought perhaps I could help strengthen defenses or—"
"That won't be necessary," Alpha Marcus interrupted. "Your parents entrusted us with your protection. The best way for you to stay safe is to remain out of sight."
Opal felt a flash of irritation. "With respect, Alpha Marcus, I believe I can be of use. I'm not a helpless damsel in need of hiding."
His eyes narrowed slightly. "Be that as it may, you are a guest here under my protection. You'll abide by my rules."
She bit back a retort, reminding herself of the importance of diplomacy. "Very well."
"Selene will show you to your room," he said, dismissing the conversation. "Dinner is at seven sharp."
Opal nodded, forcing a polite smile. "Thank you."
As Selene led her upstairs, Opal couldn't help but feel a surge of frustration. This was not how she had envisioned her time here. The idea of being confined to the house, treated like a fragile object, grated on her nerves.
They reached a door at the end of a long hallway. "This will be your room," Selene said, opening the door to reveal a modest space with minimal furnishings.
"If you need anything, you may ask one of the staff," Selene added. "But please remember to respect the rules set by Alpha Marcus."
"Of course," Opal replied evenly.
Selene hesitated for a moment before softening her tone slightly. "I understand this may be difficult for you. But it's for the best."
"Thank you for your concern," Opal said, not entirely convinced.
With a nod, Selene left her alone.
Opal set her bag down and surveyed the room. A small window overlooked the forest, and she moved toward it, pressing her hand against the cool glass. The trees swayed gently in the evening breeze, the leaves whispering secrets she couldn't quite hear.
She pulled out her phone, checking for messages. A pang of disappointment hit her when she saw none. *They're probably still driving*, she reasoned.
Sinking onto the edge of the bed, she allowed herself a moment to feel the weight of her isolation. The distance from her brothers was more than just physical—it was as if a part of her was missing.
A soft knock on the door pulled her from her thoughts.
"Yes?" she called out.
The door opened slightly, and a young woman peeked in. She appeared to be around Opal's age, with warm brown eyes and a friendly smile.
"Hi, I'm Elena," she said. "I help out around the house. Alpha Marcus asked me to see if you needed anything."
Opal managed a genuine smile. "Thank you, Elena. I'm alright for now."
Elena stepped inside, closing the door gently behind her. "I know this must be strange for you. New place, new people."
"You could say that," Opal agreed.
"If you like, I could show you around tomorrow," Elena offered. "I know the Alpha said you should stay inside, but the gardens are lovely, and it's safe within the inner grounds."
Opal's spirits lifted slightly at the prospect of not being confined entirely. "I'd like that. Thank you."
Elena's smile widened. "Great! I'll come by after breakfast."
"Looking forward to it," Opal said sincerely.
As Elena left, Opal felt a flicker of hope. Perhaps her time here wouldn't be entirely isolating.
She unpacked her things, carefully placing the charm bracelet on the nightstand beside the bed. The sight of it brought a mix of comfort and longing.
*I wonder how the others are settling in*, she mused.
Determined not to wallow, she pulled out her notebook and began jotting down observations about the pack. If she couldn't actively assist, she could at least learn as much as possible.
Time passed quickly, and soon a soft chime signaled that it was time for dinner.
Opal freshened up and made her way downstairs, following the sounds of muted conversation to a formal dining room. A long table was set with meticulous precision, but only a few seats were occupied—Alpha Marcus at the head, Selene to his right, and an empty chair presumably meant for Opal to his left.
"Please, have a seat," Alpha Marcus said as she entered.
She took her place, noting the variety of dishes laid out. The meal proceeded with minimal conversation, the atmosphere formal and somewhat stifling.
"How do you find your accommodations?" Alpha Marcus inquired politely.
"They're comfortable, thank you," Opal replied.
"Good. If there's anything you require, do not hesitate to ask."
She considered broaching the topic of being more involved but decided against it for now. "I appreciate that."
Selene engaged in small talk about the territory, the weather, and other mundane topics. Opal responded appropriately but couldn't shake the feeling that she was being assessed.
After dinner, she excused herself, citing the long journey as a reason to retire early.
Back in her room, she changed into comfortable clothes and settled into bed. Sleep eluded her as thoughts of her brothers and the uncertainties ahead swirled in her mind.
Pulling the blankets tighter around herself, she whispered into the darkness, "Stay safe, everyone."
Eventually, exhaustion overtook her, and she drifted into a restless sleep filled with fragmented dreams.
---
The next morning, true to her word, Elena arrived to escort Opal to breakfast and then on a tour of the gardens. The sun shone brightly, and the scent of blooming flowers filled the air.
"This is my favorite spot," Elena said, leading her to a secluded area where a small pond reflected the clear sky. "It's peaceful here."
"It is," Opal agreed, taking in the serene surroundings.
They sat on a bench overlooking the water.
"Can I ask you something?" Opal ventured.
"Of course," Elena replied.
"What can you tell me about Alpha Marcus and the Briarcliff Pack?"
Elena hesitated. "Well, the Alpha is a strong leader. He's very... traditional. Values order and discipline above all."
Opal nodded. "I've noticed."
"But he's fair," Elena added quickly. "He cares deeply about the safety of the pack."
"And Selene?"
"She's his most trusted advisor. Some say she's the real power behind the throne," Elena said with a conspiratorial wink.
Opal filed that information away. "I see."
They chatted amicably, and Opal found herself relaxing for the first time since arriving.
As the days passed, she settled into a routine—breakfast, walks with Elena, solitary afternoons spent reading or writing, and formal dinners with Alpha Marcus and Selene. Despite the restrictive environment, she began to appreciate the quiet moments.
But the sense of something missing never left her. Each night, she gazed at the stars, wondering if her brothers were looking up at the same sky.
One evening, as she prepared for bed, her phone buzzed with a message.
"How are you holding up?" It was from Ridge.
Her heart lifted. "Managing. How about you?"
"Same. The pack here is... different."
She smiled wryly. "Tell me about it."
They exchanged a few more messages before agreeing to check in again soon.
As she settled under the covers, Opal felt a renewed sense of determination. Three weeks might feel like a long time, but she would make the most of it. She would learn what she could, stay vigilant, and be ready for whatever came next.
And when the time came, she would reunite with her brothers, ready to face the future together.