Welcome to Adams Town

I retreated to the shelter of the tree's trunk, seeking its solid presence to ground myself. The noise and chaos around me began to blur as I focused inward, trying to regain control over the emotions raging within me. Closing my eyes, I took deep breaths, filling my lungs with air and letting it calm my racing heart. The frantic drumbeat subsided, replaced by a sense of clarity and quiet.

I listened to Utica's harsh words, and it was obvious, she harbored a deep hatred for werewolves. Her voice dripped with bitterness as she hurled insults, labeling werewolves as thieves, filthy mutts, and senseless creatures. It was clear that an old feud between the hunters and the now-disbanded Black Lotus Clan was the source of her deep-seated animosity. I've accepted the truth; I am a werewolf, and I know very little about it.

Despite knowing I needed to keep things under control and not escalate the situation, her words stung. The negativity was hard to ignore.

But what set my anger ablaze was the sight of Mel and Utica sharing an intimate moment, their lips meeting in a kiss. A sudden burst of anger surged through me, jealousy and possessiveness tearing at my insides. My body temperature spiked sharply, the intense heat threatening to trigger the transformation I desperately fought to suppress.

Standing up from the tree's base, I stare menacingly at Utica, my eyes glowing with an intense fury. My instincts take hold of me, pushing me dangerously close to losing control. Utica, noticing my reaction, laughs mockingly.

"Oh, be careful Mel. Looks like the mangy beast has a crush on you." Utica said, laughing.

Unaware of my actions, I find my body tense and ready to confront Utica. The anger became more intense, but I quickly push it down, not wanting to lose control in front of Mel.

"Tobias, this is Utica," Mel said, introducing her. "She's, my girlfriend."

I glanced directly at Utica, my deyes filled with rage and dislike. She had been the first one to fire the arrow aimed at my head, her actions were laced with malicious intent. As I focused on controlling my emotions, a putrid scent caught my attention, guiding my senses directly to her.

The odor was overpowering, radiating with an aggressive intensity. It triggered a primal response within me, fueling the anger that had been simmering under my skin. I could feel the beast within me stirring, urging me to unleash it. It seemed that even the beast inside me had no fondness for her.

"Nice to meet you, puppy," Utica said. "Keep your filthy paws away from this piece of meat. She already has a bitch gnawing on her rack."

I ignored her comment, and turned away, not wanting to engage in further confrontation. "Thank you for your help, Mel. I can find my way back home on my own."

"There is no need for that," Mel said.

"If you need anything from me, you know where to find me."

With a surge of strength, I leap high into the air, landing on one of the top branches of an old tree. I pushed myself into another powerful jump, propelling myself forward and creating distance between me and them. I ran quickly through the forest, following the faint scent of lavender left by Mel last night at the house.

Suddenly, a shadow passed near me, as fast as a gust of wind. The foul stench of rotten meat permeates the air, causing my senses to go on high alert. I came to a sudden halt, perching on a boulder near a gorge in the heart of the forest, realizing that I'm being followed. Their presence remained still, watching me at a distance.

"You don’t have to hide from me," I yelled, pointing in their direction. "State your business—I’ll ask only once."

The silhouettes of two men step out of the shadows, cautiously approaching me. They stopped about six feet away, kneeling as they glanced at me before bowing their head.

"We come in peace," One of the men said.

"Why are you following me?"

"We were part of the Reinhart Family's guard. We seek the protection of the Alpha. We kneel in front of you with humility, wanting to renew our vows of servitude. My name is Derrick, and the man kneeling beside me is my friend, Antolio."

The second man remained silent, looking up towards me.

"Do you have something to say?" I asked.

"My Lord, he will not be able to answer your questions," Derrick said.

Antolio opens his mouth, revealing the stump where his tongue had been severed. It becomes evident that he is unable to speak.

"His tongue was cut off when he was young man, before his first transformation. He goes by the nickname, the silent wolf."

"He couldn't grow it back?"

"Only Vampires can regrow limbs, My Lord. Lesser werewolves only heal damaged flesh."

"So, he was turned, not born as a werewolf?"

"Correct, My Lord. I was turned as well."

I pause to contemplate the situation. Having these men on my side could prove valuable, as they possess crucial knowledge about Adams Town. They might hold the answers I need about what happened to my father, which remains my top priority. However, a lingering doubt gnaws at me—what if their loyalty is just a façade?

I realize that I don't have the luxury of time to scrutinize their intentions. The urgency of the situation demands that I make a decision, regardless of any doubts. For now, I'll accept their allegiance, even if it’s tied to a last name that means nothing to me, hoping they can offer insights and assistance in uncovering the truth behind my father’s disappearance.

"I will be honest with you, Derrick. Those who threaten my life will find death in their efforts, that includes those who betray me." I said looking away.

"We saw what you did to Dylan's pack, My Lord. We have no intention of betraying you. We will make the necessary sacrifices until the Primal blood has returned to its rightful place," Derrick said.

I nodded, acknowledging Derrick's words. "Very well. If your loyalty proves true and your intentions align with mine, then we can work together. But remember, any attempts of betrayal will be answered with death."

Derrick and Antolio nod their heads in agreement. "We understand, My Lord. We are at your service."

I urgently needed to track down the remaining werewolves who launched the brutal attack on the estate last night. Their actions hold the key to uncovering the truth behind my father's mysterious disappearance. As I contemplate my next move, the idea of sending Derrick and Antolio to gather intelligence becomes increasingly appealing. "I must locate this Dylan individual and his gang, or whatever is left of them. Although the hunters are on the trial, I want you to find them first."

Derrick's expression tightened with concern. "He will not hesitate to eliminate us if he discovers our allegiance to you, My Lord."

"Your task is to observe discreetly, gathering any valuable information you can. Return before sundown with your findings. Tracking them down first is crucial."

"As you wish, My Lord," Derrick said, nodding before turning around to begin his search.

"One more thing, Derrick."

"Sir?"

"I have a specific request for you," I said, pausing to choose my words carefully. "Lineage might be the only thing that sets us apart, but I want to be addressed differently."

Derrick’s eyes widened slightly as he processed my request. "Then how should I address you?"

The name Reinhart has echoed in my ears ever since I arrived in Adams Town, even from the talking beast that fled last night. It's a name wrapped in mystery, one that has been thrust upon me unexpectedly. For now, I will accept this name and its legacy, at least until I uncover the truth behind it. "Call me Tobias. Tobias Reinhart."

"It will be done your way, sir," Derrick said.

"Excellent. Now, come back to me with your findings before the hunters come knocking on my door."

Both men quickly vanished into the shadows, disappearing without a trace. If what Utica said about the werewolf clan is true, then my mission extends beyond uncovering the truth about my father’s disappearance; I must establish a strong presence and win the support of the people of Adams Town. I suspect that's what Harold was trying to convey during the conversation he said we needed to have—a conversation that, unfortunately, never took place.

I continued my run toward the estate, my thoughts drifting to my parents and the secretive conversations they had behind closed doors—conversations I was never part of. As I arrived, I noticed that most of the structural damage had been repaired; the shattered windows were replaced, and the bodies of the werewolves had vanished. Suddenly, a scent wafted through the air—an exquisite aroma that was hard to ignore.

Following the scent, I discovered the dining table set for one. It seemed someone prepared a meal as if expecting company. The sight of the meticulously arranged table stirred my curiosity, but I pushed the thought aside, knowing there were more pressing matters to attend to.

I made my way upstairs, determined to settle into a room where I could gather my thoughts and strategize my next moves. The room at the end of the hallway provided a clear view of the surrounding area, perfect for keeping an eye out for any approaching threats.

I tossed my luggage onto the luxuriously dressed bed and opened the glass doors to the balcony, revealing a breathtaking view of the forest stretching into the horizon. As I stood there, lost in thought, my gaze drifted to a nearby mirror, catching my reflection. I walked closer, studying the older, more mature version of myself staring back. My body appeared stronger and more defined; the result of the changes brought on by the transformation I endured last night. Then, my attention was immediately drawn to the prominent patch of white hair streaking through my dark hair.

"I hate this white hair. It makes me look like a skunk."

I’m starting to recognize the pattern now—the connection between my anger and the transformations it triggers. It’s becoming clear that if I’m to survive and thrive within the complex world of the clans in Adams Town, I must learn to control and channel this raw power. Remaining composed and rational is crucial. My immediate task is to understand the intricate politics and dynamics among the four families. To do that, I need to learn how to navigate and communicate effectively within the bureaucratic system that governs them.

I pulled a shirt from my luggage, feeling a wave of frustration as I caught my reflection in the mirror. The fabric clung uncomfortably to my body, making me feel restricted. I let out a sigh, glancing at myself.

"I look like an opened sardine can."

As I finished adjusting the shirt, a high-pitched ringing sensation filled my ears, alerting me to someone’s approach. I turned my attention to the door just as a young woman, dressed in servant attire, stepped into view. Her eyes widened in surprise, lingering on the sight of my exposed chest before she quickly averted her gaze.

"Apologies, My Lord. I didn't mean to intrude. I was sent here to manage the household chores and to serve as your personal valet. I have also prepared a meal for you; I hope it meets your expectations." The young woman said.

"And you are?" I asked, contemplating the beautiful woman standing in front of me.

"My name is Ann. It will be an honor if you just call me Annie."

"Annie. Was it you who fixed the dining table?"

Her smile widened, "Yes, that was me. I wanted to ensure that you enjoy a decent meal."

"I've prepared two options for your lunch, My Lord. Judging by your current physical state, it seems we'll be going with the second option."

"Which is?"

"Raw meat, sir."