Awakening The Silver Wolf

RAVENNA POV 

"It's nothing to worry yourself about," Mia said as she resumed eating. 

"Of course it is," I said. "They just gave me a warning. I don't know you well but I'm already looking forward to hanging out with you." 

Mia finally raised her head and met my gaze, her face unreadable before she signed and put down her fork. 

"My father was a traitor to the pack," she began, her hand trembling slightly. "He made a deal with the Blood Moon Clan, promising them information about our territory in exchange for power. He thought he could outsmart everyone and elevate our family's status."

My heart sank. "What happened?"

Mia's gaze dropped back to her plate. "He was caught. The Alpha had no choice but to execute him in front of the entire pack. It was brutal. His betrayal weakened our defenses, and several of our members were killed as a result of his actions." 

My brow furrowed. "And now they blame you?"

"Exactly," Mia replied, her voice barely above a whisper. "The girls you saw? They think I'm a threat, that his blood runs in my veins, and that I might repeat his mistakes. Not just them but the entire pack. Some of the elders even wanted to cast me out. But Alpha Darius intervened. He told them, 'We should not suffer for our fathers' sins.' But that doesn't change how the rest of the pack feels." 

Darius had intervened for her? I guess the giant bastard still has some sympathy in his cold black heart. 

"But why do they think you'd be like him?" I asked, frustration bubbling within me. "You're not your father." 

Why was I so protective of this girl I've only just met like an hour ago? 

Mia looked up, eyes fierce but glassy. "Because they see my father's legacy, not me. They think I carry his shame, and the whispers… they're relentless. The pack wants me gone, and if I'm not careful, I could be. They want to keep their distance from me—" she paused, her voice breaking, "and they want you to as well." 

I leaned forward, my expression resolute. "Well, they could all go burn in hell, because I'm not keeping my distance from you. They can't erase you just because of your father's mistakes. You deserve a place here, just like everyone else." 

Mia offered a faint smile, but it didn't reach her eyes. "Thank you, Ravenna. It means a lot, but the pack's fear is strong. They think I'm a curse, and their whispers could drown out any chance I have to prove them wrong." 

I shook my head. "You'll prove them wrong, no matter what those whispers say. I may not know you, Mia, but I know you're good." 

Mia's smile finally reached her eyes. "Our food has gone cold." 

"Yeah, it has." 

We ate it that way regardless. 

***

"Keep your guard up, Ravenna," Mia instructed, her voice firm but encouraging. "You've got to anticipate my moves." 

I nodded, adjusting my stance. I was no novice; I'd trained for years, but Mia's skill was undeniable. 

The way she moved, fluid and precise, spoke of countless hours spent honing her abilities. I needed an expert like Mia to hone my fighting skills if I wanted to stand a chance against Darius. 

That day at the battlefield Darius had underestimated me and didn't give his all into the fight, and I knew he wouldn't make that same mistake again. 

I had asked her to train me, and she had agreed without hesitation. We've been at this for two days now. 

I haven't seen Darius since that day at his office and thank the goddess for that. I didn't want to see him expect it was necessary. 

Lucian had ignored me since that first day—the prick—but I had caught him observing me now and then. Probably spying to go report to his alpha. 

Mia feinted to the left, then lunged forward, aiming for my midsection. 

I blocked the strike, but Mia quickly pivoted, aiming a kick at my side. I barely managed to sidestep, the rush of air from Mia's foot grazing my skin.

"Good reflexes, but you need to stay more balanced," Mia noted, stepping back to reassess. "If you don't have a strong base, it doesn't matter how quick you are." 

I took a moment, breathing deeply to calm my racing heart. "Got it. I'll focus on my footing." 

"Let's try again," Mia said, her tone shifting to one of encouragement. "This time, remember: anticipate my movements. Don't just react." 

We began again, and this time I felt more attuned to the flow of the drill. As Mia charged forward, I stayed grounded, feeling the earth beneath my feet. 

When Mia feinted, I predicted the shift and countered with a quick jab to Mia's shoulder.

"Nice! That's it!" Mia exclaimed, a spark of excitement lighting up her features. "See? You're getting the hang of it!" 

I grinned, my confidence rising. "I can't let you keep showing me up." 

Mia laughed, the sound loud enough that several heads turned our way. Some scowled at us but we ignored them. It's been this way for two days now. I guess I'm now on their shit list. I didn't care one bit. 

"You're not far behind. Just remember that strength isn't everything. It's about strategy, too. Use your environment." 

With renewed focus, we continued the drill, Mia directing me through combinations of strikes and defensive maneuvers.

I felt the exhaustion creeping in, but the exhilaration of training with Mia pushed me forward.

"Try to think two steps ahead," Mia encouraged, her eyes sharp as she circled me. "If I were to attack from this angle…" She lunged again, and I met her with a block, then a quick jab. "Perfect! See how much more effective that was?" 

I beamed, adrenaline surging. "I think I'm starting to get it!" 

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting long shadows over the training ground, Mia stepped back, wiping sweat from her brow. "You're improving faster than I expected. Just keep practicing, and soon they'll be the ones watching you." 

I gave a playful, exaggerated bow. "Thank you, master." 

Mia chuckled and put her arms around my shoulder. "Let's go wash up." 

Also, we've been sharing my room. 

Mia had followed me to my room that day, and I didn't want her to leave. Anya wasn't pleased with the change, but honestly, I doubted anything could ever make her happy. She always wore a scowl on her face.

"Ravenna!" My name boomed in the field. 

I turned to Lucian who was across the field and he waved me over. I exchanged a look with Mia before I left her side and went to him. 

I gave him a nod once I got close. He didn't return it and just said, "Darius wants to see you."