Where the Woods End

by pinterestismyhome

Summary:

CW // TW / CHILD ABUSE , ABUSE , PTSD , ANXIETY & PANIC ATTACKS , AND GRAPHIC FIGHT SCENES THAT MAY BE UNSETTLING

-PLEASE TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF AND DO NOT READ IF ANY OF THESE TOPICS ARE TRIGGERING FOR YOU! I LOVE YOU!-

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        George is an abused omega who has found shelter in a new pack. After three years, however, his wolf is yearning for a mate he isn't ready to have and new challenges arise that force him to ignore the issue. He knows he can't avoid it forever but that won't stop him from trying.

Chapter 1: Prologue

Summary:

CW / TW: THIS FIC DEALS HEAVILY WITH ABUSE, ANXIETY, PTSD, AND CHILD/ADULT TRAUMA AS WELL AS GRAPHIC FIGHT SCENES THAT MAY BE UNSETTLING. PLEASE DO NOT READ IF THIS WILL BE TRIGGERING FOR YOU, TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF LOVE!

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“Skeppy, do you smell that?” the omega asks as the two near George’s hiding place. George holds his breath, determined not to let a single sound escape his mouth.

“Bad, stay behind me,” the alpha mutters, “it smells… it smells like a… an omega?”

       The golden beams filtered through the leaves of the everoaks, casting the forest in a warm glow and illuminating the goings and comings of the evenings' animals. Sinking down tiredly on the horizon, the sun presented its last gift of the day: painting the sky with hues of purple, pink, and orange. Humming with quiet life, the everoaks swayed in the breeze, the mighty trees relaxing their limbs and letting the wind run her course through their leaves.

        Many animals stopped to appreciate the generosity of mother nature, a family of birds perched on a low branch, teaching their younglings to fly. Two squirrels raced from one tree to another, competing for the best few of the captivating sunset. Rabbits padded through the soft grass, the ears getting tickled by the harmless blades. Evenings in the forest were peaceful, even soothing for those who venture in. One wolf, however, cursed the sky, willing the sun to set faster as he bounded through the woods, disturbing several animal families as he went.

        George’s paws began to ache and he spared a glance over his shoulder, slowing slightly. He was only met with the everoaks waving back at him. Sighing, George sunk to the ground, the soft grass under his side cushioning his tired body as the sweet smell of the forest filled his burning lungs.

        He had been running for days at this point, desperate to escape his pack. George was the son of the Ragnar packs’ High Alpha family but on his 14th birthday, he was revealed as an omega. In the Ragnar pack, being an omega was the last thing you want to be. Especially if you're the son of the High Alpha.

        George stretched out his lean body, trying to find a more comfortable position so he wasn’t lying on his wounds which ached mercilessly on his side. Like he said, being an omega in the Ragnar pack is the last thing you want to be. He finally gave up and curled into a protective ball, resting his head on his paws. As much as he wanted to sleep, George needed to keep moving. He fled from the pack on his 18 birthday to prevent himself from getting bred by an alpha. If he had stayed, he would have had no choice in his partner and most likely would have been gifted to one of his dad’s guards who certainly would not treat him well.

        George’s head shoots up as a twig snaps, the sound echoing slightly. He stumbles quickly to his feet, backing himself against the tree as he smells wolves nearby, one omega and one alpha. The bark digs into his hind but he stays quiet, trying to make himself as small as possible as he subconsciously pins his ears at the alphas scent. The wolves don’t smell like their part of Ragnar but George would prefer to avoid any interaction. The wolves move closer and George glances around wildly. Now the sun has dipped completely below the horizon, leaving darkness in its wake. He can use this to his advantage if he has to run, he’s very good at getting lost in the darkness only to emerge when the sun shines once more.

        “C’mon Bad. I’ll protect you if anything pops out,” a loud voice sounds. The alphas voice. George is too scared to move, they’re close enough to hear him, and if the wind shifts only slightly they’ll smell him. So he stays silent, praying they will pass by unnoticed. Unfortunately, Mother Nature isn’t on his side, per usual.

        “Skeppy, do you smell that?” the omega asks as the two near George’s hiding place. George holds his breath, determined not to let a single sound escape his mouth.

        “Bad, stay behind me,” the alpha mutters, “it smells… it smells like a… an omega?”

        “They’re scared!” Bad exclaims. George quietly curses Mother Nature as the duo step closer. He’s going to have to run for it and pray they aren’t fast. The other omega seems to sense his distress, however, because the voice calls out, “Please don’t run, I promise we’re not going to hurt you. We can help if you need it!” George pauses for a moment, weighing his options.

        This is his opportunity to join a different pack. To secure his safety. Goerge shifts so he's on his hutches, prepared to spring away. He's never been able to trust alphas or any omega that sides with them. He doesn't know if this pack is any different and it's not worth the risk. He'll find a different pack that he can scope out and make sure he won't have to repeat what he's already gone through.

        "Please come out? Skeppy, back up a few steps," the omega calls, whispering the last part to his alpha friend. Goerge's eyes widen. Did this omega just give an order to an alpha?

        "I don't know, Bad. I don't want you to get hurt," the alpha replies, sounding unsure.

        "Please?"

        "Fine but if anything happens I'm jumping in, okay?"

        George hears the alpha back up a few steps. Maybe he can come out... this alpha is actually listening to the omega. That has to count for something, right? Steadying himself, George takes a deep breath and steps out into the open, keeping his stance guarded and studying the omega curiously. The omega perks up, his tail wagging slightly as he studies George.

        "Hello, my name's Bad!" the omega chirps, taking a few steps forward. George's eyes immediately widen at the advance as he scrambles back a few steps, his paw catching on a root. The gray omega pauses, tilting his head as George rights himself, struggling to find any words and finally deciding to stay quiet.

        Goerge watches the alpha hesitantly, his white coat making him stand out as he studies George in return. He can handle the shaking and anxiety better in wolf form but still, being face-to-face with an alpha is something he doesn't think he'll ever get used to again.

        "I'm sorry, are you okay?" Bad asks gently, sitting down. The alpha eyes his friend and goes to step forward when Bad turns and sends him a sharp look, stopping the alpha in his tracks. George's relief must be obvious because Bad turns back to him and starts letting off a calming scent, trying to combat the overwhelming alpha smell that has filtered through the trees.

        George watches them cautiously before shaking his coat slightly, it's now or never, "I need somewhere to stay, a new- a new pack," he admits quietly. It was a gamble to tell them he was in need of a new pack as most wolves automatically assume the worst when they hear of a wolf leaving their old pack.

        "Oh! You can sta-" Bad starts excitedly when Skeppy steps forward aggressively. George flinches harshly, closing his eyes as Bad gasps. The clearing is silent for a moment before Skeppy speaks again.

        "I'm sorry," he murmurs quietly, backing up and studying George with worried eyes before his expression turns slightly more defensive, "Why are you packless?"

        George's chest tightens. So many reasons..."I.. I ran. They aren't for me,"

        Skeppy studies him closely once more. The stare makes George increasingly nervous as tense silence stretches between the three.

        "Skeppy, it's okay," Bad mutters, nudging the alpha with his muzzle. Skeppy glances at Bad and the two seem to have a silent conversation. Not knowing what's being said sets George on edge. Maybe this way a bad idea, is it too late to run?

        "Okay, you can stay with us," Skeppy says, stepping back as Bad turns his innocent eyes back on George, who is tensed at the edge of the clearing.

        George takes a second to relax, trying to get rid of the shake in his legs and Bad tilts his head once more, "C'mon, our home is this way,"

        "What's your name?" the alpha asks. George jumps slightly when he talks, still shaken from the aggressive advance.

        "Geo-" he stops short. Should he give them his real name? What if his father or siblings come looking for him? 

        "Geo?" Bad asks.

        "George," he replies after a second. If his family comes looking for him and this new pack turns him out, he's dead anyway. There's no point in trying to lie.

        "I'm Skeppy," the alpha adds warmly, speeding up to walk next to Bad who is thankfully in between George and Skeppy. The more distance between him and the alpha the better.

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        The trio has walked for a few hours, now stopping at a creek for some water which George laps up hurriedly while trying to ignore the growing pain in his side. He'd learned that Bad and Skeppy often spend hours in the woods messing around, the latter often playing tricks and pranks on the former but they called it 'memes'.   

        "How long has you been without pack?" Bad asks, shaking water from his muzzle.

        "A few days," he replies. 

        Bad's eyes widen, "You've been on your own for days? When's the last time you ate?"

        George thinks for a moment and realizes he hasn't eaten since fleeing Ragnar territory, or slept for that matter. "Since I left,"

        He can tell Bad wants to ask more questions but the omega thankfully holds back, inside declaring, "We have lots of food back at our house! We'll make sure you get all the stuff you need and then we have a guest bedroom and you can sleep for however long you want,"

        Goerge bows his head gratefully, it'll be nice to get some rest after these days in the woods. 

        "Hey Bad," Skeppy calls suddenly. George turns to see the alpha knee-deep in the water in his human form. He backs up slightly, tensing as Skeppy splashes Bad with water.

        "Geppy, no!" Bad growls, shaking the water out of his coat before giving George an apologetic look, "Sorry, he's a muffin,"

        Skeppy laughs and George finds himself chuckling slightly, "Muffin?"

        "Bad doesn't curse," Skeppy explains, making his way out of the stream only to grab Bad around the middle and chuck the small gray wolf into the water. 

        George jumps up, hackles raised and ready to run when Bad emerges from the water in his human form, sputtering angrily but laughing as he tries to tell Skeppy off but failing miserably as the alpha's laugh drowns him out. George relaxes only slightly as he realizes the two are only playing.

        "We should get back," Skeppy finally gasps out, glancing up at the dark sky before shifting back into his white wolf form. Bad nods and shifts as well, making sure to shake the water from his coat right onto Skeppy, who snickers.

        "C'mon George, we're almost there and we'll get you that food," Bad calls, matching Skeppy's pace as the duo begins to jog. 

        George clambers to his feet, feeling refreshed after getting to drink fresh spring water. He tilts his head as he stretches out his legs, yelping suddenly as pain shoots up his side.

        Bad and Skeppy turn around quickly, Skeppy's ears up and alert for danger as Bad approaches him slowly, "George are you okay?"

        "Yeah, I'm fine. Just some old wounds," he quickly replies, hating the attention he's getting from the two.

        "Okay but I'm going to check that out when we get home," Bad replies, tossing his head back as he motions George to follow. Home.

        Bad and Skeppy chat quietly as Goerge follows them. His side is beginning to hurt pretty badly but he doesn't want to say anything, especially since Bad and Skeppy are taking him in. It's dangerous to take in packless wolves, especially when you don't know why they're packless and he has a sneaking suspicion Skeppy didn't believe his lie. Maybe that's why he's beginning to trust Bad, and even Skeppy, much faster than he usually would. They're risking pack trust by bringing him in but from what he's seen so far with the size of Bad's heart, he's almost positive he's not the first stray they've picked up.

        Soon pinpricks of light appear in the distance. George lifts his head up higher in an attempt to get a better look and Bad and Skeppy speed up excitedly.

        "Welcome to the Faolan Pack, George!" Bad exclaims, turning around to motion George forward enthusiastically. Skeppy giggles at his antics and Goerge catches the alpha staring fondly at the omega. Interesting...

        "Are you two mated?" he asks before stopping suddenly, horrified with himself. What possessed him to ask that. As he begins to stutter an apology Bad turns around and giggles.

        "No, best friends. Skeppy's not even 18 yet,"

        Skeppy rolls his eyes, "I'll be 18 in a few weeks," he tells Goerge although his focus is on the omega bounding ahead of them. George speeds up after Bad, desperate not to be alone with the alpha even though he seems trustworthy and obviously head-over-paws for Bad. Still, alphas are unpredictable as he's learned time and time again. 

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        The pinpricks of light soon grow to illuminate nice looking wood houses adorned with vines and flowers that seemed to add a certain sense of homeliness that George never felt in Ragnar despite living in the High Alpha house most of his life (the past four years he's spent sleeping in the cramped and dirty omega quarters with the servants).

        Goerge follows closely behind Bad as the happy omega prances into the main part of the territory, the houses growing more frequent and shops popping up the closer they get to the center of the town as the soft grass is replaced by smooth stone paths that are cool under his paws. He tries to take in all the details but it's slightly overwhelming so he sticks to keeping his eyes on Bad. George knows there are wolves and people staring at him but he had to expect that, he doesn't smell like part of the pack but he's let through unchallenged. Probably because he's with Bad and Skeppy.

        "Skeppy and I live right in the center and we can show you the High Alpha's house! It's very pretty," Bad explains, turning a corner. George visibly flinches at the thought of having to meet the High Alphas but luckily no one sees as he follows Bad and Skeppy around the corner.

        George's jaw drops slightly as they enter town square. It's set up in a large circle with a fountain in the center, houses and shops surrounding it with roads branching out in all directions. Despite it being dark, everything is illuminated in a soft glow from the many lanterns scattered around, hanging from balconies, placed nonchalantly on benches, even set on the ground. Bad turns around proudly, Skeppy laughing quietly at George's reaction.

        "So, what do you think?" Bad asks, sounding nervous. George wags his tail slightly, "It's beautiful,"

        Bad's face splits into a grin as he turns to smile at Skeppy before beckoning George forward once again, "Up there is the High Alpha house," he points his snout up a large hill where a beautifully illuminated mansion sits. Even from a distance, George can tell that the wood is detailed and the vines that snake around are a perfect example of contained wildness. As much as he doesn't like High Alphas, he has to admit the house is the nicest he's ever seen.

        "Faolan actually has two High Alpha families," Bad recites, "Two different packs roamed this territory long ago and eventually became one when their firstborns were mates,"

        "They did it to stop the fighting," Skeppy interjects, sending Bad an exasperated look.

        Bad turns, offended, "No, they were already friends and mated because of how close they were! It was romantic!" 

        "We're never going to agree on this," Skeppy sighs, turning to George who had been listening to the two bicker, "Nobody knows for sure how the packs came together, there are obviously several theories. Feel free to pick your favorite,"

        George offers a small smile, turning to glance back up at the High Alpha house. It's unusual for two High Alpha's to share a pack as they are extremely territorial. Those mates must've really been destined for each other.

        "Our house is right here," Bad chirps, leading him to a small house with white walls and wood pillars, matching the rest of the buildings except this one has small crystals in the pots outside rather than the customary flowers George noticed and smelled.

        He eyes the crystals while Bad shifts to unlock the door, Skeppy shifting as well and catching George's curious look.

        "I like crystals," he says simply as Bad opens the door. George studies them for a moment more, admiring the blue glow they give off before turning shyly back to Skeppy, "I think they look great,"

        Skeppy smiles warmly as he follows Bad inside, George padding after them.

        Immediately the smell of muffins fills his nose which makes George feel better for some reason. The interior of Bad and Skeppy's house is extremely cozy, the front door leading into a den with a couch and three bean bags, the kitchen right behind the den, and a small staircase to the left that leads upstairs. Crystals and plants are dotted around and there are throw blankets and pillows everywhere. 

        "You can shift if you'd like," Skeppy says gently, entering the kitchen and running a hand through his hair. Bad nods in agreement, sending George a warm smile and the duo starts to pull out ingredients. Goerge's stomach rumbles at the sight.

        "If it's okay, I'd like to stay in wolf form," he replies. It's better this way. His anxiety is less severe, he's a lot less flinchy, and he can keep part of him to himself. A type of privacy he hasn't had in a long time.

        "That's okay, whatever you're most comfortable with," Skeppy says.

        George is taken aback. He's never had someone value his wants since he was revealed as omega. This was a change he could definitely get used to as he slowly sits down in the den, listening to Skeppy and Bad's playful banter. Soon he's had a wonderful meal of deer meat, his wounds inspected by Bad (this was not fun as the other omega had to get a little closer than George was comfortable with but the wounds were, thankfully, deemed mild enough to not receive medical attention), and he was shown his room, Bad apologizing for it being small but George couldn't hide his joy as he curled up on the bed.

        "It's perfect, Bad," he said, watching the other omega's face light up before he was alone again but this time, the alone was good. He didn't know how this whole thing was going to go but for tonight, he had a full stomach, a comfortable bed, and for the first time in a long time, he felt strangely... safe. 

        He slept without nightmares that night.

Notes:

Thank you for reading the prologue! I want to preface this fic by saying while I don't know how many chapters it will be, I do have the entire thing planned out in a 10-page Google doc so hopefully, that can calm any stress anyone may have about starting this book because we are in it till the end bb :)

This is also my first fic so I'm praying my writing gets better as we go on but if you do notice something in my writing patterns that interrupts the flow of the story, please let me know!

Anyway, I'm so excited to develop this world so I hope you stick around to see it grow :)

Chapter 2: Chapter One: Chant

Summary:

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CW // TW / CHILD ABUSE , ABUSE , PTSD , ANXIETY , PANIC ATTACKS , AND GRAPHIC FIGHT SCENES THAT MAY BE UNSETTLING

-PLEASE TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF AND DO NOT READ IF ANY OF THESE TOPICS ARE TRIGGERING FOR YOU! I LOVE YOU!-
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George stills as the smell of another omega drifts by him. The scent is familiar yet George can’t pinpoint where it’s from exactly. He inhales again when his heart drops and he begins to shake, this wolf is from Ragnar.

        Panicked, George takes off towards the meadow, running so fast his paws are hardly touching the ground.

        “George!” He hears a voice call, “George, wait!” 

~Three Years Later~

        George's breathing was ragged and fast as his paws pounded relentlessly into the rough terrain. He planted his left paw and he spun right, quickly changing direction before picking up speed again. The omega counts his strides as he leaps flawlessly across a large gash in the ground. Grinning slyly to himself at his perfect form, he slows as he loops back around to the beginning of the course which is hardly visible through the dark night.

        “That was amazing!” Bad yelps, padding out meet George with his tail wagging aggressively, “I didn’t know you could run like that! You’re better than most, no, ALL of the alphas I’ve seen!”

        Skeppy let out an indignant, “Hey!” having come up behind Bad and nudging him lightly.

        “Well it’s true,” Bad replied, exasperated.

        “As if you could do any better,”

        George chuckled at their antics as his friends began arguing lightheartedly. Skeppy and Bad mated shortly after Skeppy’s 18th birthday when they realized they had a soul bond, a rare connection between mates, but they still acted like children, especially around George who was now borderline family with the duo and the only people he trusted despite being a part of the Faolan Pack for three years coming up this month.

        “Well, anyway,” Bad finally declared while shouldering Skeppy away (the alpha feigned a wounded look which Bad pointedly ignored), “that really was amazing, George. Forget the alphas that participate in the Moon Games, you would whoop their tails,” Bad smiled earnestly, Skeppy nodding along behind him.

        “It’s probably for the best I don’t compete, I wouldn't be able to function with that many alphas around anyway,” George replied, earning himself sympathetic looks from Bad and Skeppy which he acknowledged with a small smile. He didn’t like the sympathy but he also didn’t like to lie to the two wolves that took him in. 

         “Well, I have work tomorrow so I’m going to go home but thank you for coming to watch!” George says, smiling at his friends. Bad and Skeppy compliment his run a few more times, much to George’s delight, before bidding him goodnight and heading back to their house. 

        He had moved out of Bad and Skeppy’s house after about 6 months of living with them. They told him he could stay but he knew now that Bad was mated, he would go through heats, and not only is that very private for the couple but George really didn’t want to hear all that or witness anything he wasn’t supposed to. Bad and Skeppy understood, Bad blushing furiously as he explained his reasons, and as soon as he secured a job at the omega diner in the town center, he moved into a house not far from his friends that way he was still nearby if he needed them.

        Bad had found out about his nightly adventures by accident one day when George was too tired to go to work. He had sent word he was feeling ill and settled down to sleep when Bad, panicked and laden with ingredients for soup, had shown up ready to take care of him (it was unusual for an omega to get sick and when they did, it was usually pretty bad). 

        George had laughed, feeling touched, and explained he was just tired and needed a day off. Bad, the ever-talking omega, somehow managed to get him to admit to running the course and after a small scolding that he would probably be in trouble if he got caught, Bad had begged to come watch his run. After only a few minutes, George relented and said yes which is how Bad and Skeppy ended up watching him run.

        George waited for his friends to disappear down the street before turning to head back to his own home. He stayed in wolf form as he walked through the empty town, the majority of the pack was asleep already but he remained alert. While treatment of omegas was heavenly in Faolan compared to Ragnar, George had learned that the remaining High Alpha, Sharp, wasn’t super strict on enforcing omega protection and some sketchy stuff went on behind the scenes. George shuddered and picked up his speed, ignoring how his fur stood on edge even though there was no danger in sight. He could never be too careful.

        While he was doing much better now than when he had first arrived in Faolan, he was still plagued by anxiety as well as horrid nightmares due to his PTSD and the only alpha he really felt comfortable around was Skeppy. Still, it had taken him the better part of a year to even be alone with the alpha without Bad around and another 6 months before the alpha could touch him without him flinching. Any other alpha though, it made him shake and clam up if they came to close. At least he wasn’t sent into full-blown anxiety attacks anymore, and George considered that a win even though when he was in human form, all his progress went out the window and he was much worse off. The day he discovered that was a bad one and an experience he didn’t wish to repeat.

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        He finally made it to his house, smiling at the small pot of crystals that had been gifted to him by Bad and Skeppy as a housewarming gift. He quickly shifted and unlocked the door, shivering slightly as the cool air flowed over his skin before he was safely within the protection of the wood walls. 

        George shrugged off his jacket and stretched out his muscles which would undoubtedly be soar in the morning from his run. Despite the dangers, his nightly outings to the Moon Games course were his favorite parts of the week and helped him calm down. 

        It was odd, really. The danger of being out at night, running just like he had almost three years ago when Bad and Skeppy had found him and taken him in, it helped greatly with his anxiety and gave him something to focus on that was completely his. Plus, he found whenever he stayed out late to run, he had little to no nightmares while he slept and he always preferred nights where he wasn’t reminded of the horrors he’d endured at the hands of the Ragnar alphas.

        George flopped onto his bean bag as he contemplated Bad’s words at the course, wanting to distract himself. Per usual, his friend was right, if he were to participate in the Moon Games he would most likely win but the thought of even entering such an event made dread weigh heavily in his stomach. 

        The Moon Games were an annual competition where alphas competed to show off their strength and skill. It consisted of two nights of trials. The first night was the bulk of the competition where the alphas were divided into two groups, one being hunters and the other being the hunted. The hunters had to track and tag the hunted and gained points for tagging them out while hunted were awarded points for survival time. 

        The first round lasted from sundown to midnight and then the roles switched, giving all the alphas an equal opportunity. The second round lasted from midnight to sunrise and at the end, all the points were added up and the finalists entered a sudden death round at sunset the next day where they battled it out until there was one wolf left. 

        The winning wolf gained pack respect and honor as well as had one wish granted by the High Alpha, whether it be a certain mate, a new job, or a better house. The Moon Games were brutal and even though they were open to omegas and betas, none had ever competed due to its intensity.

        George sighed as he ran a hand through his hair, forcing himself to stand and make his way to his bedroom at the back of the house. His living space was smaller than Bad’s and Skeppy’s but he liked it better this way. He was more aware of everything around him and it made him feel safer. 

        George quickly changed into comfy sweatpants and a tee shirt before curling up into his bed. He could get a few hours of sleep before sunrise which would undoubtedly wake him up so he could get to work on time. Soon he dozed off, his body eager for the rest after the strain of his run.

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        Groaning, George turned over to avoid the blinding morning sun shining on his eyes. He snuggled into his blankets, basking in their warmth as he watched the sunlight slowly creep up his wall till it reached the top of his desk. Sighing, he slid from the covers, knowing that if he didn’t get up now he would be late for work.

        He changed into his uniform and brushed his teeth quickly, not bothering to do anything with his short hair as it really wasn’t worth trying to style. George contemplated showering but decided to just do so later, he was about to smell like bacon and eggs anyway.

        After locking his door behind him, George shifted and started his short walk to the diner. He mostly kept his head down and shared only a few, small smiles to some of his omega neighbors. 

        Mornings in Faolan were always peaceful and usually consisted of yawning pack members commuting to work in wolf form to keep out the morning chill. George liked them because he usually didn’t have to talk to anyone since everyone was too tired to hold a conversation so early.

        He padded through the town center, sending a fond smile towards Bad and Skeppy’s house as he passed knowing the duo was definitely still asleep. Skeppy woke up late and even though Bad was an early riser, he preferred to stay curled up in his alpha’s arms for as long as he could. 

        “Hi, George!” a cheery voice chirped. George flinched slightly, caught off-guard as he turned to see Kova, his excitable co-worker, prancing towards him.

        “Goodmorning, Kova,” he replied, relaxing his tense muscles as he smiled at the cream-colored wolf. While he didn’t fully trust anyone besides Bad and Skeppy, Kova had proved to be a loyal person and George didn’t mind hanging out with her, especially because her bubbly personality always kept the little diner full of laughter and happy omegas.

        “How are you this fine morning,” she asked, her voice dropping slightly to emphasize her words. George chuckled as the two fell into step beside each other.

        “Little tired but good,” 

        “Good, we need you at your best to make those delicious bacon strips,” 

        “Don’t worry, these bacon strips shall be the best you’ve ever tasted,”

        “They always are. Yours always taste better than everyone else's,”

        George smiled at the compliment before falling into a comfortable silence as he listened to Kova recount the crazy stories she’s heard the past few days. 

        Soon, they arrive at the little diner. The diner was simply called The Diner. George loved the creativity. It was a small cafe-style restaurant that served omegas only. It was perfect for George and he was thankful to Bad who had found the place and helped him get hired. 

        He followed Kova as she went around back to unlock the door. She shifted into her human form, a short, small stature with strawberry blonde hair and an upturned nose, and unlocked the door. She held it open so George could enter the diner before he shifted. George was thankful she never asked questions on why he didn’t shift in the open and always let him in so he didn’t have to unlock the door.

        “C’mon, we’re going to be busy today. Sign-ups for the Moon Games are happening next door so you know what that means,” Kova jokes, flipping on the lights.

        George shifted and groaned, Kova laughing at his annoyance as they began to set everything up. The sign-up process for the Moon Games was long and most alphas brought their omegas with them. This meant they were always super busy as the omegas came in to chat and eat while they waited for their alphas to finish signing up.

        “I heard Sapnap is going to be competing this year,” Kova called as she sat up some chairs in the front of the restaurant, “I think he’s going to win,”

        “Probably,” 

        Sapnap was the son of Illeron, the pack’s second High Alpha who had unfortunately passed away due to a sickness that swept through the area before George arrived, killing many wolves in its wake. Sapnap was the only survivor of the second High Alpha family as the sickness claimed his parents and younger brother. The first High Alpha family also suffered with the loss of their Luna, Sharp’s mate. 

        Luckily both of the pack's future High Alphas, Sapnap and Sharp’s son, Dream, survived. They are predicted to be mates, even have a soul bond, and will most likely take the same Luna but nothing is certain until Dream turns 18 in a few weeks. They duo will lead the pack once they are mated with their Luna and Sharp steps down from his leadership position or passes away. 

__________________________________________________

        The day flies by in a haze of hurry. Omegas filter in and out of the doors frequently, setting George on edge as the scent of excited alphas wafts in. He’s thankful he works in the back, preparing food as Kova deals with the register and customers but his nerves still get to him as his hands shake slightly. 

        However, soon he’s so busy the threat of the alpha’s are soon forgotten as he tries his best to keep up with all the orders. Scrambling eggs, flipping bacon, cooking and cutting up ham. The whole process keeps him on his toes and albeit, a little hungry.

        Finally the rush slows and Kova briefly closes the shop and comes to sit beside George in the back as the duo eat some of the leftover food.

        “Oh my goodness, that was stressful,” Kova mutters as she steals a piece of bacon from the tray. George can only nod as he devours his eggs, thankful for something to eat.

        “Remind me why I decided to work at The Diner again?” Kova asks sarcastically, wiping her greasy fingers on her uniform.

        “I honestly couldn’t tell you,” George replies, his back cracking as he stands and stretches. Kova snorts as she begins to clean the dishes, George grabbing some supplies and beginning to wipe down tables.

        The two bid each other farewell once everything was neat again and the next omegas showed up for their shift. George waits for Kova behind The Diner before saying a final goodbye and heading back to his house where he would do who knows what for the rest of the day. 

        He sighed as he winded his way through the crowd of pack members, some in wolf form like him and others in their human bodies. There were many alphas huddled in the area, excitedly discussing the upcoming Moon Games and obviously meaning no harm but they still put him on edge. 

        He skirted along the outskirts of the town center, glancing at Bad and Skeppy’s house as he went and contemplating seeing if his friends were awake but ultimately deciding against it as it was still pretty early and he didn’t want to wake them up.

        George paused halfway to his house, instead turning and heading towards a meadow by the woods. If he’s going to be alone he may as well be outside.

        The meadow was a short walk from the main town and was really a sight to behold. The grass was soft and flowers littered the area in such a way that it looked like wherever a raindrop hit the ground a bud bloomed in its place. 

        George smiled as he took a deep breath and shifted into his human form, enjoying the sun on his face as he laid back in the grass, running his fingers through the thin blades. The sky was clear today, an infinity of blue high above him as George closed his eyes briefly, letting the sweet smell of the meadow fill his nose. Despite the calmness of the area, however, George felt his mind wandering as a frown adorned his pale features.

        While his life had more or less settled down, George couldn’t help but feel like something was missing. Sure, he had a stable job, friends, his own house, and alphas who respected his boundaries but he felt stuck. Like it was the same thing every day, every week. He could go out and make more friends but his social anxiety prevented that. 

        In fact, he knew the real reason he was feeling this way but he really didn’t want to admit it however he couldn’t ignore it much longer: George yearned for an alpha. His wolf craved the connection and protection that came with finding a mate, whether it was a soul bond or not. 

        He knew he couldn’t stay unmated for much longer without it becoming dangerous and the longer he waited, the harder his heat would hit when he did find a mate but he couldn’t bring himself to do anything about it. Just the thought of an alpha being that close to him makes bile rise in his throat. 

        He sits up, putting his head in his hands as the battle between his wolf and human raged inside of him. His wolf growled at him, spitting warnings that it was getting dangerous for him to remain unmated and he needed an alpha while his human froze and panicked at the idea of becoming bound to anyone.

        Suddenly feeling too stressed, George hurriedly shifted back into his wolf form, shaking his brown coat in the sun as he began to walk. Maybe a trip through the woods would clear his mind. 

        He wandered aimlessly through the everoaks, watching as the sun reached its peak, signalling the beginning of the hot afternoon.

        George decided to head back, not wanting to be caught out in the heat with no one knowing where he is. Besides, Skeppy and Bad will definitely be awake by now.

        As he turns, however, George stills as the smell of another omega drifts by him. The scent is familiar yet George can’t pinpoint where it’s from exactly. He inhales again when his heart drops and he begins to shake, this wolf is from Ragnar.

        Panicked, George takes off towards the meadow, running so fast his paws are hardly touching the ground.

        “George!” He hears a voice call, “George, wait!” 

        He pushes to go faster when he suddenly stops, spinning around as a black wolf crashes uncoordinatedly through a bush, landing with an “Oomph!” at George’s feet. He can’t believe his eyes as he runs over and tackles the wolf, laughing loudly.

        “Chant! I thought I’d never see you again!” George laughs delightedly as his childhood friend grins, playfully biting at his ears. The two tussle and play like they did when they were young, basking in each other's company before they finally break apart, smiling widely.

        “What are you doing here? How’d you find me?” George asks, feeling elated. His excitement fades, however, as Chant’s expression turns solemn.

        “I knew the direction you went so I ran until I found a pack. I saw you a few days ago heading inside the main town center but I didn’t want to risk heading in so I waited until you came back out into the woods again,” Chant paused, swallowing nervously before he continued, “I have some bad news,”

       George’s heart speeds up as he waits anxiously for Chant to continue, “Last week, Winnow aged into an omega,”

        George’s breath caught in his throat as he struggled to breath, his anxiety running wild at the thought of his little sister going through everything he went through. He should’ve been ready to get her out should this have happened. 

        George chided himself for forgetting his little sister was turning 14 and now she was stuck in the same situation he was, except unlike him, she had someone to get her out.

        “I need to save her, I need to get her out now,” George gasped, turning towards Ragnar but Chant blocked his path.

        “George, I know you want to get her out now and we will as soon as possible but we need a plan. Is there anyone you know who can help?”

        George paused for a second, forcing himself to calm his breathing as Chant stood near him with earnest eyes. Chant’s right, he needs a plan. He wouldn’t do his sister any good if he barged in and got himself captured by his father and siblings. They need to think this through and they need assistance.

        “George? Are you okay?” Chant asked, obviously worried as he pressed against him.

        “Y-yes, I’m okay. I have people who can help us, come on,” George turned and began running towards the town center, having to slow his pace significantly so Chant could keep up.

        “Damn, Gogy. You’ve gotten fast,” Chant panted as they ran, trying to lighten the atmosphere with his banter. 

        The nickname managed to get a smile out of George as he gently bumped into his friend, “Don’t call me Gogy,”

        “I know you love it,”

        George merely rolled his eyes as the duo approached the town center which was still crawling with alphas due to the Moon Games. Chant looked around anxiously, his own apprehension of alphas only slightly less severe than George’s own. He glanced at his friend sympathetically as he led him around the main area, avoiding as many alphas as possible.

        It didn’t help that they were getting curious and defensive looks since Chant didn’t smell like part of the pack but George just nudged his friend along until they were in front of Bad and Skeppy’s house.

        “These two took me in and helped me get on my feet,” George explained as he pawed the door. Bad always insisted he start knocking before he scratched the wood by accident but the omega really didn’t mind.

        Chant pressed closer to George as more pack members sniffed curiously in his direction. George tried to hide his own anxiety for Chant’s sake. His friend had risked a lot to come warn him and he wasn’t going to let anyone take him away.

        To both omega’s relief, the door opened a second later as Bad gave Chant a curious look before realizing most of the alphas in the area were staring and let them in quickly.

        “Bad, I need your help,” George explained quickly, shifting into his human form before flopping onto the couch. Chant stayed in wolf form, huddling by his legs apprehensively as Skeppy came bounding into the kitchen, probably being able to smell the distressed omegas from wherever he was in the house.

        “What happened? Are you okay?” Skeppy questioned worryingly, Bad nodding as they both looked at George, their gazes flickering between him and Chant.

        “Sit, I’ll explain,” George replied. Bad and Skeppy sat quickly, “Chant, you can shift. I promise they won’t hurt you but if you want to stay in wolf form you can. I understand,”

        Chant looked hesitantly between George, Bad, and Skeppy, finally deciding to stay in wolf form but he jumped onto the couch so George could scratch his ears.

        “George, what’s going on?” Bad asked again, wringing his hands together until Skeppy gently took them in his own, effectively calming his mate as George launched into an explanation.

        “So you guys know that my father is the High Alpha of Ragnar and I have three siblings,” 

        Bad and Skeppy both nodded as their eyes narrowed. They were both aware of what George went through at the hands of his father and older siblings.

        “I was in the meadow today when Chant found me. He helped me escape when I was 18 before I could be mated,” George smiled at Chant, grateful for the omega, before continuing, “Well as it turns out, my sister turned 14 last week and aged as an omega,”

        Bad and Skeppy both audibly gasped as Chant shifted nervously. George feels tears in his eyes as his throat tightens up.

        “I need you to help me get her out, I can’t let her go through what I went through,” he was choked up now, “I need to save her,”

        “Oh, George,” Bad stood and quickly wrapped George up in a hug as his tears began falling. Chant nestled into his side as Skeppy sat on his other, his friends creating an effective barrier between him and the outside world. 

        He sobbed into Bad’s shoulder, the whole situation bringing back unwanted memories of the beatings he received and the treatment he was subject to and what Winnow was most likely going through now.

        It took a little bit for George to calm down but as soon as he did Bad began sprouted out ideas.

        “How do we get in, what’s your security like?” Bad asked, pacing the room as Skeppy remained in deep thought.

        “Umm,” George turned to Chant who had surprisingly shifted, claiming if George trusted Bad and Skeppy, so could he.

        “They increased it significantly after you got away,” Chant admitted, running his fingers through his dark hair, “I was barely able to evade them and that’s only because I called in a favor one of the beta guards owed me,” 

        George sighed and put his head in his hands. If Chant, who knew every path and inch of the area, was only able to get out through a bribe, how was he supposed to get in, get his sister, and get out unnoticed. 

        “We could go to Sharp?” Bad suggested with uncertainty, fidgeting with his glasses.

        “He wouldn’t help,” Skeppy growls, making Chant flinch. His eyes immediately soften, “Sorry, Chant. I just wish there was more our High Alpha would do to protect omegas but he doesn’t really care for them since his Luna, Otsana, died. All the laws for omega protection were started by the second High Alpha, Illeron, and his Luna, Roux, but they both passed away due to the same sickness that killed Otsana. Now, he just ‘enforces’ the laws just for the approval of the pack omegas,”

        Chant’s mouth formed into a line but he didn’t complain. George knew they were both thinking the same thing, at least he isn’t like Shaye, George’s father and High Alpha of Ragnar. Shaye couldn’t care less if an omega was tortured to death in front of him. Bad sits down, pulling George from his thoughts. 

        “You’re right,” Bad says, glancing at Skeppy, “the only way he would help is if one of the honored alphas asked and we don’t have or know anyone with that standing,”

        All three turned to George whose gaze was fixated on the ground, his mind reeling. There has to be something he can do, anything.

        He thinks for a moment before his eyes widen as an idea comes to mind.

        “What if I won the Moon Games? Sharp would have to honor my wish!” he blurts, standing up as he ponders his idea.

        “Moon Games?” Chant asks at the same time Skeppy apprehensively says, “I don’t know,”

        “George, I know you want to save your sister but I don’t think this is the way to do it. You said it yourself that you probably wouldn’t be able to get through it with all the alphas around,” Bad counters gently, standing up again.

        George spun around to face them, determination in his gaze, “That was before Winnow was in danger. Now, I have no choice,”

        “It’s too dangerous,” Skeppy argued, moving to stand by Bad.

        “What are the Moon Games?” Chant interrupted, exasperated and looking a little lost.

        Bad sighed, “It’s a really intense competition between alphas and very aggressive. Alphas get hurt every year,”

        Chant stood as well, backing Bad and Skeppy as he shook his head at George, “No, not happening. You could die,”

        George groaned frustratedly, “Look me in the eyes and tell me right now you wouldn’t do the same for your siblings. Skeppy, I know you would enter to save Bad and Bad, I know you would do anything to save Skeppy,” he turned on Chant, “Chant, you saw what I went through. You know what it’s like to be an omega in Ragnar. We can’t leave her there. I won’t let her go through that and if that means entering the Moon Games, so be it. I will do anything to get her out,”

        His three friends looked down and knowing he hit the nail on the head, George took a step forward as they met his gaze again.

        “I know you don’t approve but this is what I’m doing and I need your support. Please don’t make me do this alone,”

        There’s a beat of silence. George bites his lip as he awaits their responses.

        “Even though I think this is stupid,” Skeppy sighs, holding up a hand to stop George from interrupting, “I’m on your side, George,”

        “Me too,” Bad agrees immediately. George smiles as his heart swells, his eyes meeting Chant’s as his best friend smiled sadly.

        “You know I love Winnow and if this is how we save her, I’ll be with you every step of the way,”

        George wrapped them in a group hug as tears threatened to fall again, smiling to himself knowing he had such loyal friends.

        “Well, I guess there’s only one thing left to do,” George sighs, breaking up the hug and looking at his friends. They all nod, it's time.

__________________________________________________

        George squares his shoulders, his determination to save his sister keeping him from having a panic attack as he walks through the sea of alphas to the sign up table. 

        Several alphas watched with astonishment as he approached the area, clearing his throat to get the attention of the beta working the table.

        “Can I help you?” she asked, narrowing her eyes at George. His resolve only strengthened and he willed his voice not to shake.

        “I want to sign up for the Moon Games,” 

        Laughter broke out through the nearby alphas as the beta rolled her eyes.

        “Very funny, now move. I have actual competitors to sign up rather than deal with an omega,”

        George narrowed his eyes, trying to ignore the chuckling spreading through the pack, “I’m serious, I’m here to sign up,”

        “You sure? We wouldn’t want a cute little omega like yourself scraping their knees,” a nearby alpha chortled, causing another wave of chuckling. 

        George’s cheeks burn red as the beta raises an eyebrow at him.

        “Sign him up, there’s no rules against it,” a new voice says. George turns to see none other than High Alpha Sapnap standing behind him.

        Sapnap stared down at the beta, his light brown hair falling into his eyes as he clearly challenged the girl to contradict him. Being so close to a High Alpha usually made George shake but he felt oddly comforted and his wolf seemed to like Sapnap’s presence as it rumbled contently.

        “Of course,” the beta finally agreed, not daring to disobey the orders of the late High Alpha’s son as she opened up her computer.

        “I’m sorry about them,” Sapnap says. It takes George a second to realize the alpha is talking to him.

        “I-it’s okay. I expected it,” He admits. 

        Sapnap smiles kindly, “Well good luck, I guess I’ll see you at the Moon Games…”

        “George,” he supplied. 

        “George,” Sapnap smiled again, “See you later,” and the alpha headed off, sending glares at anyone who was still laughing at him. George’s wolf whined indignantly, wanting to follow the alpha but he wouldn’t allow it. 

        Attempting to calm his blushing cheeks, he was hurried through the sign-up process by the annoyed beta, too preoccupied to notice Sapnap watching him protectively from a distance or his wolf whining to get back to the alpha. He had more important matters to worry about.

Notes:

And we officially begin the story! Apologies for how information-heavy the chapter is but I promise it will be better from here on out. Thank you to everyone who has commented, bookmarked, or left kudos on the prologue, it means a lot especially because WTWE (Where the Woods End) is my first story on ao3 :). I hope you liked the chapter and will be glad to know that posting will hopefully be more consistent but please forgive me if there are some gaps because I'm still a student and online isn't doing me any good lol.

Anyway, I hope you enjoyed it and look forward to the next chapter :) love u!

p.s. I know the time skip is large but it was necessary and u will get the gogy-alpha angst ik u want haha

p.s.s. Ages are going to be dif than in real life bc their irl ages messed up my plot and we can't have that lol

Chapter 3: Chapter Two: The Moon Games

Summary:

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CW // TW / CHILD ABUSE , ABUSE , PTSD , ANXIETY , PANIC ATTACKS , AND GRAPHIC FIGHT SCENES THAT MAY BE UNSETTLING

-PLEASE TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF AND DO NOT READ IF ANY OF THESE TOPICS ARE TRIGGERING FOR YOU! I LOVE YOU!-
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        “Hello, omega,” he whirls around to face Wilbur, Schlatt, and Techno, all grinning down at him. Well, Schlatt and Wilbur are grinning, Techno looks bored.

 

        “What do you want?” he forces himself to reply, standing his ground as his wolf growls angrily.

 

        Wilbur throws his head back and laughs, “We just wanted to wish you good luck,”

 

        “You’re gonna need it,”

        George tiredly opened the door for what seems like the hundredth time today, eyeing the beta official standing there.

 

        “George?” the beta asked, leaning forward slightly.

 

        “Yes,” he replied, frowning.

 

        “I’m Winston, one of the organizers for the Moon Games. I’ve been sent to confirm that you, an omega,” the beta gave him a once-over before continuing, “are in fact participating in this year's games?” 

 

        George was about to rip someone’s throat out.

 

        “I’ve confirmed this multiple times already, can you guys leave me alone now?” he snapped. The beta, Winston, jumped back and scowled, nodding once before walking away.

 

        George sighed, closing the door and resting his forehead against it. He knew he should be nicer but he was exhausted and quite frankly, annoyed. It seemed like every hour someone new was at his door making sure he really wanted to take part in the games and he would have to confirm it over and over and over again. Not to mention he had hardly gotten any sleep last night with his anxiety running high and his wolf more restless than usual.

 

        He glanced at the sun through his window. It was mid-day and he hadn’t left his house yet or eaten anything. He just couldn’t stand the stares and the chuckles from the other pack members and he was so on edge his stomach had been churning for hours.

 

        “What have I done,” George whispered into the door, sinking to the ground as he leaned into the wall and pulled his knees up to his chest.

 

        His breathing shortened as he desperately tried to calm down, reminding himself he was doing this for Winnow. She needed him, and for her, he’s going to get through this and compete against alphas. The thought made him sob as tears trickled down his cheeks.

 

        George puts his head between his knees, trying to slow everything but his thoughts seem to fly by at the speed of light. He could hardly stand to be near an alpha how was he supposed to compete against them? How was he supposed to be hunted by them? 

 

        “Gogy? Are you okay?” Chant emerged from the kitchen, an half-eaten apple clutched in his hand as he ran to George’s side.

 

        George shook his head, leaning into Chant as his friend hugged him tightly, breathing deeply as he tried to match Chant’s steady rhythm. 

 

        “It’s alright, breathe with me,” Chant coos.

 

        George follows his lead, inhaling for 1, 2, 3 and exhaling 1, 2, 3. It takes him a few minutes but he calms down enough to wipe the tears from his cheeks and stumble to his feet. 

 

        “Maybe you should rest,” Chant exclaims, standing up with him. 

 

        George shakes his head, glancing at his friend, “I have to train,”

 

        Chant sighs, giving him a knowing look, “I know you’re stressed out. I can see it, Gogy. You’re not taking care of yourself!” Chant throws his hands out for emphasis. 

 

        “Thank you for helping me through whatever just happened but I can’t do anything til Winnow is safe, okay? I’m sorry but this is how it is right now,” George replies, his heart softening at his concern.

 

        “C’mon, please?”

 

        “Not now, Chant. I have to go,” 

 

        George doesn’t bother grabbing anything as he closes the door behind him, hearing Chant scoff slightly. He can’t help but grin knowing Chant is all too used to his stubbornness. 

 

        He turns and immediately feels like a zoo animal, shifting quickly as he sees someone point in his direction. Several people turn to watch him as two girls bend their heads together, whispering and sending curious glances in his direction.

 

        He ignores them as he disappears into the alleys between houses. It’s dangerous to be in them but it’s better than being stared at.

 

        Too soon he’s forced back out into the open as he trots towards the training area, eyes narrowing as he steels his nerves. This is for Winnow.

 

        He keeps his head straightforward as the overwhelming scent of alpha clouds his senses, making part of him want to flee into the woods, but the other part of him wants to stare the alphas down. 

 

        George surprises himself by meeting a few challenging gazes to which the alphas simply grin arrogantly before scoffing and turning away. Feeling more confident that they are going to leave him alone, George makes his ways towards the front of the course.

 

        Several alphas stop to watch him as he stretches out and shakes his coat. Normally he’d be close to a panic attack right now considering he had already had something like one today but his protectiveness and determination to help his sister seems to be dimming his over emotions, to which he is extremely grateful.

 

        George rubs his paws into the dirt, enjoying the cool sensation as he feels more eyes on him. With a strike of competitiveness, he grins. If these alphas are going to stare, he might as well give them something to watch.

 

        Bending down with his hackles raised, he waits a moment to build the tension before springing forward into the course.

 

        Any nerves he feels evaporate as he loses himself, leaping, turning, and climbing quicker than he has ever done before. He hurtles over the large ditches, stretching out his body so he can use the moment to propel himself into a climbing wall which he scales in an instant. A few wolves gasp and he confidently leaps from the top, landing softly on the ground as he gets right back to the path. He completes the last obstacles easily, finishing the course in record time and smiling to himself at the utter shock coming off the alphas who had stopped to watch him.

 

        “George! That was amazing!” 

 

        George spins around, recognizing the voice and scent as his wolf perks up even more, yapping happily inside his chest.

 

        “I’ve never seen anyone complete the course that fast!” Sapnap exclaims, coming over in his wolf form. George admires his mousey brown coat for a second before glancing up and catching sight of Sapnap’s fiery orange eyes. They shine so brightly he wants to study them for hours and get lost in their chaotic warmth.

 

        “Thank you,” he manages to reply, looking away from Sapnap’s intense gaze. All the confidence he had during his run vanishes quickly, leaving him drained and ready to go home but his wolf seems to revel in the presence of the alpha, so he doesn’t mind talking with Sapnap for a little longer.  

 

        “No ones been giving you trouble?” Sapnap asks, looking around protectively.

 

        George shakes his head, smiling slightly, “I haven’t been here for long but so far just a lot of stares,”

 

        Sapnap scoffs, “I don’t doubt it, your movement while you’re running is incredible. I was watching from the hill over there,” he gestured to the nearby grassy area where several alphas were lounging in the sun.

 

        George blushed at the compliment, “Are you here to train?” 

 

        “I’m actually just waiting for Dream, we’re heading out to hunt in a few,”

 

        “Oh cool,” George nodded, “You two are mates, right?” He immediately snaps his mouth shut, burning red at his inappropriate question when Sapnap laughs lightheartedly, calming him immediately.

 

        “We hope we are but we won’t know til Dream turns 18. His birthday is about a week and half after the Moon Games,” Sapnap brightens up as he talks about Dream, his eyes shining. His excitement makes George grin.

 

        “Sap!” a distant voice calls. 

 

        George glances over Sapnap’s shoulder at a blonde wolf, the largest George has ever seen, bounding towards them at full speed. Sapnap grins and turns to meet the wolf but the sight has George shrinking back, feeling nervous.

 

        “Dream!” Sapnap yelps as the blonde wolf tackles him. George takes a few steps back as the two tussle playfully. He could tell they weren’t actually fighting but the alphas fighting make him nervous.

 

        George watched as they separated, laughing. It made his wolf ache slightly, longing for a connection like that but he ignored it as Dream glanced at him through green eyes.

 

        “Hey, you're the omega that’s participating in the Moon Games this year, right?”

 

        “Yeah, that’s me,” George replied, finding it surprisingly easy to be in Dream’s presence, just like how he felt around Sapnap. A surprising sense of security.

 

        “That’s awesome! Sap can participate this year but I can’t, I’m not 18 yet,” Dream frowned. 

 

        Sapnap chuckled and nudged Dream, “Next year. Besides,” he grinned at George, “I’ve got enough competition this year. You should’ve seen George run, Dream, it was awesome!”

 

        George felt himself blush again as Sapnap grinned proudly at him and Dream looked impressed. His wolf howled at the alphas attention, causing George to wag his tail which he caught quickly enough but not before Dream and Sapnap gave him amused looks.

 

        “I should get going,” he rushed, eyes wide at what he just did. He can’t believe he wagged his tail, in front of the two high alphas no less. That’s so embarrassing.

 

        “Well it was nice to meet you, George,” Dream smiled, pulling himself to his full height. George’s eyes widened slightly at how tall he stood, even as a wolf, but he just smiled politely and nodded.

 

        “See you later! Good run!” Sapnap called as the duo walked away.

 

        “Bye,” he called lamely to the alphas retreating backs, sighing as he turned to the course. He contemplated doing another practice run but he caught sight of a tall man with brown hair giving him a manic smile and decided he has had enough alphas for today.

 

__________________________________________________

 

        “George?” a knock rings out as George groans, head pounding, and forces himself to the door. It’s been two days since his run-in with the High Alphas and since then, he made up with Chant but still has been unable to sleep and feeling a bit sick.

 

        “Look, I’m participating. Stop aski- Oh, hi Bad!” George smiles at his friend's comforting face, grateful he wasn’t going to have to deal with another official.

 

        “Hey, I was wondering if you and Chant wanted to come over for dinner? Skeppy and I haven’t seen you since you signed up and I know you’re nervous with the games tomorrow so we figured we could try to, you know, take the weight off your shoulders and we want to get to know Chant better and make sure he feels welcome as a visitor to the pack-” Bad rambled until George interrupted him with a laugh.

 

        “Bad, I’d love to,” George grinned as Bad smiled happily.

 

        “And Chant?”

 

        George just grins as Chant pops up behind him, “Free food? I’m in,”

 

        “Well, let’s go then. Skeppy made lamb,” 

 

        Chant whooped happily at the mention of a home-cooked meal. George’s stomach rumbled loudly, making him blush as Bad and Chant raised their eyebrows at him. The sight almost made him laugh out loud. 

 

        “When’s the last time you ate?” Bad teased but George could see the underlying worry in his friend’s eyes. Bad knew how bad his eating habits got when he was anxious. 

 

        Chant gave him a look, clearly stating if George didn’t tell the truth that he’s refused Chant’s efforts to shove food down his throat he was going to tell Bad for him.

 

        “It’s been a few days,” George finally admitted, watching as Chant nodded encouragingly. Bad’s eyes widened but it was clear he wasn’t too surprised.

 

        “Good thing we have extra then,” he replied simply, looping an arm around George and the other around Chant.

 

        The trio make their way to Bad and Skeppy’s, George feeling the weight of the Moon Games lifting as he falls back into his normal banter. Bad’s and Chant’s jokes make him smile more than he has in weeks, everything seeming ten times funnier than it would be before just because of the slump he’s been in the past few days.

 

        George feels himself grinning once again as he sees an impatient Skeppy waiting for them, smiling broadly when he sees them approach.

 

        “Georgie!” Skeppy exclaims, running the last few meters and wrapping George up in a tight embrace that knocks the air from his lungs. He sees Chant back up in his peripheral vision, Bad quickly comforting him and reassuring him that Skeppy is harmless. George turns his attention back to alpha suffocating him.

 

        “Skeppy,” he gasps, tapping the alphas shoulder, “can’t- breathe,”

 

        “You muffin, put him down,” Bad scolds, whacking Skeppy as he sets George down with a laugh.

 

        “Don’t worry, Bad, I missed you too,” Skeppy coos, pulling Bad into his chest and hugging him. Bad giggles happily, pretending to be annoyed but failing. 

 

        George’s wolf howls longingly in him as it makes it obviously clear that it wants a mate. His mind flashes to Sapnap and Dream and how the duo were so comfortable around each other.

 

        “Hey Chant, how are you settling in?” Skeppy asks, pulling George from his wolf’s desires.

 

        Chant grins at George, “It’s great! Gogy here is a lousy roomie though,”

 

        Skeppy laughs, “Well, once we figure everything out, I’ll get conference with the High Alphas and get you a permanent spot in the pack, then you can get your own house,”

 

        George’s heart soars at the smile that adorns Chant’s face, remembering how he felt when he finally found a secure place within the pack. The feeling of finding home.

 

        “Who’s ready for some lamb?” Bad calls as he herds them into the familiar house, obviously too hungry to continue talking.

 

__________________________________________________

 

        “Skeppy, that was so good,” George groaned, rubbing his stomach as the three lounged around the living room.

 

        “Yeah, that was delicious,” Bad compliments, gazing at Skeppy with admiration.

 

        “I’m glad you liked it,” Skeppy smiles, obviously proud of himself.

 

        George sent the alpha a second smile as he pulled himself to his feet, knowing if he stayed seated for any longer he would fall asleep on Bad and Skeppy’s couch. He can’t afford to spend the night as much as he may want to, the Moon Games start tomorrow at sundown.

 

        “I’m so stuffed,” Chant adds, returning from the kitchen after helping himself to three servings.

 

        “That’s what you get for eating, like all of it,” George snorts, kicking Chant as he flops onto the couch.

 

        “Blame Skeppy, if it wasn’t so good I wouldn’t have eaten so much,” 

 

        Skeppy just smiles mischievously.

 

        “We better get going,” George yawns, pulling Chant to his feet and ignoring his pitiful whines.

 

        He turns to thank Bad and Skeppy again but his smile falters slightly as Bad and Skeppy exchange a look. This can’t be good.

 

        “George,” Bad starts, standing up, “Are you sure you want to go through with the Moon Games? I’m worried you’re going to get hurt or worse, the alphas are going to use their alpha voice on you,”

 

        George flinches at the suggestion of the use of the alpha voice as Skeppy nods earnestly. The alpha voice is an advantage alphas have where they can channel their wolf and get an omega to do anything they please. It has been banned from use for over a century but many alphas managed to get away with it. He turns to Chant who simply shrugs, looking taken aback by the sudden change in atmosphere.

 

        George sighs, sitting back down to face his friends. He knew this was coming, “Guys, this is the best option to get Winnow to safety. I know it’s going to be hard but I can do it, you need to trust me, okay? Besides, the whole pack will be there. Nobody’s going to try anything, especially with the beta guards patrolling,”

 

        Skeppy and Bad share another look and George feels anger bubbling as they have a secret conversation through their mating link. Why don’t they understand?

 

        “George, maybe we can find another way. Just think about-” Skeppy starts but George cuts him off abruptly, jumping to his feet. 

 

        “JUST STOP!” He yells, Skeppy side-stepping in front of Bad at his tone. George watches the movement with narrowed eyes, he may be angry but he would never hurt them. Chant lays a hand on his arm, eyes widened in alarm, but he shakes off the touch.

 

        With renewed rage, he can’t stop himself as the pent up anxiety and sleepless nights comes pouring out, “YOU DON’T THINK I'M TERRIFIED OF GOING AGAINST NOT ONE ALPHA, BUT DOZENS? YOU DON’T THINK I HAVEN’T HAD A GOOD NIGHT'S SLEEP ALL WEEK BECAUSE EVERYTIME I CLOSE MY EYES, I CAN ONLY SEE WHAT HAPPENED TO ME HAPPENING TO WINNOW. I FEEL LIKE WE KEEP COMING BACK TO THIS, YOU TWO KNOW BETTER THAN ANYONE WHAT I WENT THROUGH! GET THAT IN YOUR HEADS! THIS IS THE QUICKEST WAY TO GET WINNOW OUT, I DON’T CARE IF I HAVE TO PUT MYSELF AT RISK!”

 

        He stops, suddenly feeling lightheaded and sinking onto the couch. Guilt ripples through him as he glances up to see Bad is in tears, hiding behind Skeppy while the alpha stares at him, open-mouthed. Chant glares at him, mouth drawn in a tight line and letting off a strong scent of disappointment.

 

        “I gotta go,” George whispers, everything hitting him at once and becoming too much as he bolts to the door and slams it closed behind him.

 

        Quickly shifting, he decides he isn’t ready to go home yet or face any of his friends. Especially not Chant who’s definitely going to call him out on his bullshit, not that he doesn’t deserve it after what he just did.

 

        Wanting to clear his head, he sprints for the meadow trying to ignore the burning in his throat and the pressure building in his skull. 

 

        Soon, the soft grass sinks in under his weight as he shifts back, falling to his knees and feeling the bitter sweet release of his tears. Sobs wrack through him, making his whole body shake as he curls in on himself. 

 

        “For Winnow,” George whimpers, turning his head to the moon as his sobs fade into pathetic sniffles. 

 

        Moonlight washes over him, bathing him in the soft glow that wraps around him like a halo of stardust, framing his tear-stained cheeks and red nose. 

 

        George’s wolf howls and something close to resolve, but not quite, cracks inside him. He feels the emotions melting away like candle wax, pooling at his feet and sinking into the meadow. He can’t afford to be afraid, he can’t afford to be weak, and his wolf knows that.

 

        He gasps at the sudden change. It’s not often an omega’s wolf takes over but when they need to be strong for someone they love, sometimes it’s the only option. 

 

        George pants, trying to get used to his dimmed emotions. Even though this has never happened to him before, it’s clear he still has some control as shame makes his cheeks burn. How could he yell at them like that? The two wolves that took him in and cared for him like their own.

 

        His wolf growls quietly, the low rumble in his chest reminding him of what’s at stake and how quickly his wolf will take over if need be. George calms himself down, not wanting to give up all of his emotions to his wolf but for now, he thanks it quietly for helping him re-focus.

 

        George brushes the dirt of himself and stands up, starting his long walk home. He’ll apologize to Bad and Skeppy tomorrow before the opening ceremony, he needs their support. The ache in his chest doesn’t fade as he runs his fingers over the plants on the path. This is for Winnow.

 

__________________________________________________

 

        “You ready?” Chant asks, gazing at the pedestal where the opening ceremony will take place.

 

        George can only swallow and nod. There’s a lot of wolves here. Chant must sense his distress because he grabs his hand, squeezing it gently.

 

        George gives him a thankful smile as he turns back to the crowd. After he threw his little tantrum last night, Chant had waited up for him to come home and after yelling at him, made sure he was okay. They talked everything out and George told Chant how stressed he was about the games and his wolf teetering on the edge of taking over his emotions completely. It felt good to get everything off his chest.

 

        This morning he had gone and grabbed some bacon and eggs from The Diner (Kova was working and along with wishing him luck in the games today, gave him four meals worth of free food) and took the goodies to Bad and Skeppy as well as offer a formal apology.

 

        Bad and Skeppy, being the angels they are, understood immediately and promised to have front row seats for the competition.

 

        George scanned the crowd, looking for his friends' familiar faces but couldn’t see them.

 

        “Relax, they’ll be here,” Chant reassured. 

 

        “Right, relax,” he parroted, taking a deep breath. The opening ceremony was to start any minute and he felt the internal struggle of his wolf wanting to take over his emotions and his mind fighting it off, for now at least.

 

        “I better go to the stands, you got this!” Chant smiled gently, giving George a quick hug before disappearing into the crowd.

 

        George immediately felt the absence of his friend by his side as he started forward towards the ceremonial pedestal where High Alpha Sharp will announce the beginning of the games and the rules.

 

        He ducked between a pair of alphas, one of them scoffing at him as he walked past. He’s never wanted to shift more in his life but everyone was required to be in human form til the start of the first section.

 

        He swallowed and wiped his sweaty palms on his pants. He just has to get through the opening ceremony and then it's time to shift.

 

        “George!” 

 

        He turned, a smile already spreading as he caught sight of Sapnap winding through the crowd towards him with a grin.

 

        “Hey, Sapnap!”

 

        Sapnap finally managed to push his way past a few bulky alphas and stand next to him. George’s wolf stopped its fight for his emotions for a split second at the alphas approach, yapping happily before remembering what they were here for and turning back to battle once again. 

 

        “You ready?” Sapnap asked excitedly, obviously looking forward to the competition. George hesitated for a second but stopped when he saw Sapnap frown at him, tilting his head slightly. He stepped back self consciously under the alpha’s stare.

 

        “Are you okay? You seem pretty stressed and your wolf is freaking out,” 

 

        George glanced up open-mouthed. How did Sapnap know so much?

 

        “I- uh, I’m fine, just nervous,” he stuttered a reply, offering what he hoped was a comforting smile. 

 

        Sapnap frowned for a moment more, seeming like he was going to argue but instead his eyes flitted behind George and he smiled widely. Sighing in relief that he wasn’t going to explain himself to Sapnap, not that he would mind, he turned to see what the alpha was grinning at.

 

        “Ay, Punz!” Sapnap called, making George flinch slightly.

 

        “Sap!” a blonde haired alpha called back excitedly, making his way over and dragging a very tall, brown haired alpha, the one who had given George a manic smile at the training course a few days ago, behind him.

 

        George shivered and stepped closer to Sapnap as the brown haired alpha narrowed his eyes at him, making it painfully obvious he doesn’t like him.

 

        “Are you ready for me to kick your ass?” Punz teased, shouldering Sapnap playfully.

 

        Sapnap laughed, shoving him back, “No, you’re gonna get your ass kicked. If not by me, which is highly unlikely, by Georgie here,”

 

        George almost yelps as Sapnap wraps an arm around his shoulders and pulls him into his side, grinning. He looks up at Punz shyly, resisting the urge to push closer to Sapnap who is pressed against his side.

 

        Punz studies him, finally glancing up with a lopsided grin, “You’re the omega?”

 

        George nods, wondering if alphas will stop asking that. By his scent it should be clear he’s the only omega in the area at this point. The thought makes him nervous as he looks away for a second as his nerves go into a frenzy.

 

        “I’m Punz, aka Sapnap’s doom,”

 

        “Oh shut up,” Sapnap chuckles, nudging George, “and this is Wilbur by the way,”

 

        George smiles politely at the alpha but Wilbur just nods in return, ruffling his wavy hair with his hand.

 

        “Have you seen Shlatt or Techno?” Wilbur asks with an accent not unlike George’s own.

 

        “They can’t be that hard to spot, Techno has pink hair for goodness sake,” Punz replies, craning his head to see above the crowd.

 

        “Nevermind, I see them,” Wilbur calls, smiling at Sapnap and Punz before making his way towards the back of the group.

 

        Suddenly, George is painfully aware that Sapnap’s arm is still around his shoulders. He stills as butterflies fill his stomach. It must be nerves.

 

        “Attention this year's competitors and spectators!” silence fell over the crowd as George turned to look at the pedestal, Sapnap removing his arm from around George as he turned with Punz to pay attention. 

 

        George only had a second to miss the contact before High Alpha Sharp stepped onto the podium, looking regal in a tailored suit. Behind him stood Dream, towering over his father. George saw Sapnap wave slightly as Dream grinned in return.

 

        “Welcome to the beginning of the annual Moon Games!” Sharp yelled, smiling wickedly as the crowd exploded in cheers. 

 

        The High Alpha set George on edge, something about him didn’t seem right but it’s probably just his past with not pushing for omega protection.

 

        Sharp put up a hand and the crowd quieted instantly but remained buzzing with energy.

 

        “Now, I will go over rules and regulations but first,” Sharp grinned, “I think we need a refresher on the Moon Games,”

 

        The crowd broke out in yells again. George shrunk in on himself as he was jostled slightly.

 

        “Watch it,” a tall alpha growled at him, shouldering him hard. George stumbled into Sapnap who caught him before he hit the ground. 

 

        George righted himself as anger permeated the air, Sapnap glaring at the alpha who muttered an apology and shuffled away.

 

        “Are you okay?” Sapnap asked finally, turning back to him.

 

        George just nodded as Sapnap’s eyes soften slightly, “Don’t worry, beta patrol won’t let any of those idiots try anything during the games,” 

 

        He smiles, still shaken but comforted by Sapnap’s words. The crowd quiets once more as Sharp begins to talk.

 

        “For those of you who don’t know how the Moon Games came to be, let me give you a rundown,” Sharp began to walk along the edge of the stage, “Many years ago, our kind was rogue and unpredictable. Untamed, but none more than the alphas,”

 

        The crowd of alphas whooped loudly as Sharp smirked before continuing, “Alphas ran wild, uncontrollable and filled with rage. So much so, a day couldn’t pass by without blood being spilt on the earth from the urges they could not control. Since then, we have evolved but that bloodlust still lives deep within us. Who’s to say it won’t emerge again?”

 

        George was finding it hard to breathe. He’d seen an alpha lose control before and it had not ended well for him. A cracked skull, a broken collarbone, and 6 shattered ribs among other injuries left him bed ridden for weeks. He unconsciously traced the scar on the back of his head with shaking fingers, trying to re-focus on Sharp’s words.

 

        “That is why the Moon Games were created, to help alphas channel this energy into something interesting and slightly less deadly,”

 

        The crowd laughed.

 

        “Per usual, the Moon Games will consist of two nights of trials. The first will be the bulk of the competition with two rounds of Hunted. In case you have forgotten what Hunted is, our competitors will be divided into two groups, hunters and runners. Starting at sundown, participants will be released into the woods and the hunters have till midnight to catch as many runners as they can. At midnight, there will be a small break and reset before the roles reverse. Hunters get points for catching and pinning runners, runners get points for survival. Runners, if you are caught, you will shift into human form and walk back to the starting point. The beta officials will be patrolling all night and keeping score. The second night, my personal favorite, is the Final Fight. Our top five wolves with the most points will enter the arena and fight under the full moon till we have one remaining. The victor will be granted one wish of whatever they may desire, whether is be wealth, security,” Sharp paused to grin at the crowd, “or a mate,”

 

        The alphas went crazy, jumping up and down and yelling their excitement. George felt tears welling in his eyes as a panic attack neared rapidly.

 

        No, no, no no no no no no. 

 

        George gasped as his wolf sprung forward, latching it’s jaws into his soul. He felt like his whole body short-circuited as he jolted. His emotions ripped away from him and thrown into the depths of his mind, leaving him with extremely dimmed versions. His wolf growled, it’s message clear. There’s no time for overwhelming emotions anymore, it’s time to be strong.

 

        He stood up straight, looking around without fear at his opponents, his wolf analyzing each one. Their strengths, their weaknesses. However, when he turned to Sapnap, his wolf just howled happily and turned back to Sharp. Maybe it’s because Sapnap was so kind to him.

 

        Sharp had re-centered himself on the pedestal, eyes scanning over the crowd as Dream frowned behind him. George swore the High Alpha’s eyes lingered on him but before his wolf could process it, Sharp began speaking again.

 

        “Now for the rules,”

 

        A groan rippled through the crowd.

 

        “I know, I know. Not a favorite,” Sharp teased but his tone made George uneasy despite his smothered emotions.

 

        “As you all know, no maiming or killing. No attacking beta officials or sabotage and stay inside the perimeters. If you follow the rules you will be fine but breaking them will result in immediate disqualification. If the officials catch you doing something else they deem as cheating, you will be disqualified,”

 

        The crowd began to buzz but Sharp held up a hand.

 

        “One more thing,” the High Alpha grinned and George swallowed nervously. Even Sapnap had his eyes narrowed slightly.

 

        “This year we had a surprise. In case you haven’t heard, there’s an omega competing this year,”

 

        His wolf in control couldn’t stop George from shrinking down as every eye turned to him, looking him over like he was nothing more than spoils from a hunt. Sapnap stepped slightly closer to him, glaring at anyone who was showing aggression towards him.

 

        “Because of this new development,” Sharp continued, sneering, “I have been asked to remind our alpha competitors that any use of your alpha voice is strictly prohibited and will result in banishment from the pack,”

 

        Angry murmurs arose, the scent of the area becoming hostile as more alphas turned to glare at George. He fought to keep from shaking and kept his gaze on Sharp who was leering at him. The alphas don’t have any reason to be mad, the alpha voice has already been outlawed for so long. None of them should even think about using it on him. Then again, his old pack, his family, used it on him. Just another reason to win and get Winnow out.

 

        “Don’t worry, I won’t let them do anything,” Sapnap murmured. George sent him a smile, feeling grateful he had at least one alpha on his side, as Sapnap grinned back at him before returning his attention back to the pedestal.

 

        “Now that we have covered everything, please go enjoy a nice afternoon and be back here an hour before sundown to get split into your groups. Then, the games shall begin,” Sharp dismissed the crowd with a quick wave of his hand.

 

        George released a sigh of relief but quickly felt unsafe as more alphas turned to look at him. His wolf growled, more than ready to fight but Sapnap put an arm around his shoulders.

 

        “I’ll walk with you,” he smiled, “later, Punz!”

 

        George went to argue that he’ll be fine but closed his mouth when Sapnap’s scent washed over him at full strength. It calmed him down and his wolf rumbled as he nodded in agreement. He let Sapnap lead him through the crowd to the outskirts where Bad, Skeppy, and Chant were waiting nervously. Their eyes widened as they saw him approach, the High Alpha’s son with an arm around his shoulders. Chant backed up as Bad and Skeppy inclined their heads politely.

 

        “Evening, High Alpha Sapnap,” Bad chirped, smiling as his eyes flitted between George and Sapnap.

 

        “Just call me Sapnap please,” he replied, grinning at them.

 

        George nodded comfortingly at Chant, letting him know this is not an alpha he needs to be wary of. Chant nodded a reply but kept his distance.

 

        “Are you competing this year?” Skeppy asked, brightening up. George had a suspicion that Skeppy wished to participate in the games but held back at Bad’s worried request.

 

        “Wouldn’t miss it,” Sapnap quipped, “You’re 21 right?” 

 

        Skeppy nodded.

 

        “Why don’t you compete?” 

 

        “I prefer to stay with my mate and watch,” Bad blushed and looked down as Skeppy nudged him fondly. Sapnap “awh”d at the duo, earning him a grin from Skeppy, before turning to Chant.

 

        “I don’t think I’ve seen you around before,” he said, his nose scrunching slightly. George immediately stepped in as he saw Chant’s chest begin to rise and fall rapidly.

 

        “This is Chant. He’s a friend of mine from my old pack. We’re hoping to get him approved into the pack after the Moon Games,” George left out saving Winnow. He needed to win before making a demand that big.

 

        “Oh,” Sapnap smiled warmly at Chant which made George’s wolf growl, “Well any friend of Georgie here is a friend of mine, welcome to the pack!”

 

        Chant smiled widely, managing to sputter a quiet “Thank you,” to Sapnap. 

 

        George smiled widely at the alpha, letting Sapnap’s warmth wash over him. Sapnap meets his gaze, smiling fondly down at him. His stomach flutters slightly as they stare at each other giddily. They’re interrupted, however, as Dream pushes through the crowd.

 

        “Sap, let’s go eat. I’m starved! Hey George, sorry about my dad,” Dream rushes his words as he stands next to Sapnap, earnest green eyes meeting George’s gaze. He feels a pang of guilt. Sharp’s probably not easy to live with and he knows all about difficult families.

 

        “It’s okay, you didn’t have anything to do with it,” he comforts. Dream smiles and tousles his blonde hair, grasping Sapnap’s hand with his free one. George watches their fingers intertwine with a pang of jealousy but he shakes it away.

 

        “See you tonight, George!” Sapnap says with a smile as Dream leads him away. George’s wolf howls as they go.

 

        “George!” Chant grins, smacking his shoulder, “You have a crush on the High Alpha!”

 

        That catches his attention as Bad and Skeppy simultaneously raise their heads and ask “What?”

 

        “Huh? N-no I do not!” George sputters indignantly, his cheeks heating up. 

 

        Chant laughs, still on a high from being accepted into the pack, “You do! You’re blushing and everything!”

 

        “Oh my goodness, he is!” Bad adds, stepping closer and dancing gleefully.

 

        “Georgie’s got a crush, Georgie’s got a crush!” Skeppy sing-songs, dancing with Bad.

 

        “Will you three please shut up!” George snaps, glancing around and trying to shush them. An internal debate raged through him. Did he like Sapnap? No it can’t be, even if he did his emotions are suppressed, not to mention Sapnap is with Dream!

 

        He draws himself back as Chant, Bad, and Skeppy calm there laughter, Bad turning to him with a softened expression.

 

        “Really though, George, are you okay with the High Alpha being that close? I know it looked like you were blushing but it something happened-”

 

        “No no no, Sapnap’s great,” he interrupts, groaning a second later at his mistake.

 

        “Great?” Skeppy asks, raising his eyebrows suggestively that sends Chant and Bad into another fit of giggles.

 

        “Okay, that’s enough. Let’s go eat,” George demands but he can’t keep the smile off his face as he turns away, his friend’s teasing lightening up his mood dramatically. He thinks not for the first time how lucky he is to have them here.

 

__________________________________________________

 

        George’s good mood disappears with every step towards the course, the sun steadily inching towards the horizon. An unignorable reminder of the events that are to start the second the last of the fiery haze sinks beneath the ground. 

 

        He clenches and unclenches his fist, resisting the urge to shift as he takes deep breaths. His wolf growls and reigns in his emotions but tension remains in his muscles, making his movements stiff as he forces himself to take one step after another.

 

        Chant, Bad, and Skeppy had wished him luck, already heading to the stands. The stands were pointless is his opinion, nobody could see anything going on in the woods from them anyway but his friends insisted they be there, for which he was grateful.

 

        The long line of alphas waiting to be divided came into view, George’s chest tightening at the sight. His wolf reigns back his emotions, forcing his body to calm itself down.

 

        His feet smack against the ground as alphas turn at his approach, majority leering at him. He gulps as he scans the crowd searching for any familiar face. Unfortunately, the only eyes that make contact with his own are Wilbur’s. His stomach drops as Wilbur grins sadistically and begins walking towards him.

 

        His wolf growls, pulling in more control. So much so, George finds himself walking towards the line, meeting Wilbur halfway. Wilbur doesn’t miss the chance to ram his shoulder into George, sending pain shooting down his arm and torso.

 

        “Watch where you’re going,” Wilbur growls.

 

        George forces himself to narrow his eyes, not replying as he goes to walk by him but his path is blocked.

 

        “You will reply when spoken too,” Wilbur snarls, taking a step closer so George can smell the anger wafting off him. George’s wolf bares its teeth in reply but he schools his expression into something natural. This only manages to anger Wilbur more as he goes to shove George. 

 

        Bracing for impact, he squeezes his eyes shut but he feels two more alphas approach, making him peak through cracked lids.

 

        Wilbur is being held back, a pink-haired alpha holding one arm and a brown-haired alpha with defined sideburns holding his other. All three alphas are sneering at him but Wilbur seems content to let them stop him. Instead, he shakes them loose and smiles.

 

        “I’ll see you during the hunt, omega,”

 

        All three alphas stalk away, the pink-haired one giving George a once-over that chills him to the bone before following his friends nonchalantly.

 

        George forces himself to calm down after the strange encounter, glancing back at the line. His wolf still on edge, making him feel uneasy but he brushes it off as he’s ushered into the crowd by a beta official.

 

        Another Beta stands on the pedestal, calling out names. If your name is called, you go stand to the side. George doesn’t hear his name, thankfully, so he stays put. Soon, the group has been divided into two. Wristbands are passed around each group to help differentiate hunters from runners. George studies his, it looks dark blue but he doesn’t know for sure. The other group’s bracelets look yellowish. He rolls his eyes, of course they had to be color coordinated.

 

        “Hey George,” he turns to see Punz smiling at him before the alpha looks around, “I guess we’re on the same team tonight!” 

 

        At least he has one familiar face, even though they will still be competing.

 

        “Yeah,” he replies, smiling and unsure of what else to say. Instead he fiddles with the edge of his shirt, running the smooth fabric between his fingers.

 

        They stand in silence for a second before hands clasp George’s shoulders. He grins despite himself as Sapnap’s scent invades his senses.

 

        “Hey Snapmap,” Punz laughs, punching his shoulder.

 

        “Oh shut up,” Sapnap giggles. The sound makes George feel warm as he leans into the touch. Sapnap wraps an arm around him playfully, giving him a shake.

 

        “You ready, George? Looks like we’re going to be hunting first,” he grins. George laughs as Punz whoops.

 

        Sapnap’s side is warm and it takes all George’s focus not to let himself be overwhelmed by the sensation. What is wrong with him? He shakes his head slightly, clearing it as a hush falls over the crowd.

 

        He turns with Punz and Sapnap towards the podium, Sharp and Dream stepping up onto it. Sapnap withdraws his arm as Sharp clears his throat, an energetic buzz rising from the alphas. It makes George nervous but his wolf puts an end to that quickly, refocusing his attention on Sharp.

 

        “Welcome back competitors. Who’s ready for the Games to begin?” Sharp smirks as the crowd goes wild, the smell of aggression skyrocketing as the alphas bounce off each other.

 

        The crowd settles down when Sharp raises his arm, still smirking, “Competitors on the left,” he gestures to the crowd George is standing in, “You will be hunting first. Competitors on the right will be running. You have your assignments. In 30 minutes the Moon Games will officially begin,”

 

        The crowd goes mental. Shouts and screams make George’s head ring. Sharp laughs over the din, the sound sending a chill down his spine.

 

        “For now, I recommend you all get some water because that’s all you're getting til midnight. Be back here in 20 minutes, then the runners will be released,” Sharp smiles into the crowd.

 

        Sapnap taps George on the arm, “Me and Punz are going to go get some water and then talk with Dream before we have to meet back here. Want to come?” 

 

        George nods, his wolf yapping happily at the prospect of being with both Dream and Sapnap. He chastises it quickly, there’s no need to get so excited about being around the High Alphas.

 

        He follows them through the crowd, sticking close so he doesn’t get bumped away. It’s clear from the pure energy in the air the alphas here are far too excited for the Games to start.

 

        “Hey Dreamie,” Sapnap calls as they near the podium. 

 

        “Hey,” Dream replies, grinning as he wraps an arm around Sapnap and pulls him into his side. Dream turns to grin at Punz and George, “Are you guys ready?”

 

        “Oh hell yeah,” Punz says. George just shrugs, trying to look nonchalant but it doesn’t work very well.

 

        “Don’t be nervous, Georgie,” Sapnap teases, leaning over and ruffling his hair. He bats the alphas hand away indignantly but can’t ignore that fact that he liked the alpha touching him. 

 

        “Yeah, Sapnap won’t stop talking about how good you are. I’ll be rooting for you,” Dream adds with a mischievous smile. 

 

        Sapnap swats him in the stomach, “As your predicted mate, you should be rooting for me but I guess since it’s George I don’t mind,”

 

        George almost blushes. 

 

        They quickly drink some water, the alphas chatting aimlessly while George just stands there, before a horn starts to sound.

 

        “That’s our cue,” Sapnap declares, jumping out of Dream’s arms. Loud whoops fill the area as the competitors make their way to the beginning of the course in their respective groups.

 

        “Good luck, guys! I’ll be officiating if I can get away from my Father so I might see you out there. If I don’t I’ll be cheering for you all!” Dream yells as they join the crowd.

 

        “I’m so excited.” Punz exclaims, smiling widely, “Hey, there’s Wilbur. Will!”

 

        George sighs as the tall alpha gives him a once-over before smiling a Punz, “I guess I won’t be hunting you tonight, I’m still going to kick your ass though,” 

 

        Punz and Sapnap laugh but George can’t help but feel like the words are aimed at him.

 

        They shuffle towards the starting line, the last sliver of sun still peaking over the horizon. George’s wolf calms his nerves as it focuses in, this is it.

 

        “Runners! Are you ready?” Sharp’s voice booms. They go wild.

 

        “Hunters! Are you ready?” It’s Dream’s voice this time. The yells are louder as the alphas whoop, a few howling.

 

        “Everyone shift,” Sharp commands. George feels instant relief as he shrinks down into his powerful body, any fear he has disappearing completely. 

 

        “Runners you are released,” the runners howl and yap as they sprint into the woods, “Hunters as soon as the sun is gone and at my word, you may hunt,”

 

        The group waits impatiently, growling and bumping against each other as all eyes stay on the sun. The smells and sounds of the runners disappear quickly, faster than light itself.

 

        “Hunters,” Sharp calls as the last sliver of sun disappears, “HUNT!”

 

        George is jostled as the competitors surge forward. He growls at an alpha who uses its size to shoulder him to the side but quickly loses him in the group.

 

        He refocuses on the woods. He needs to get to the front of the pack and break off if he wants any hope of catching anyone. 

 

        George spots an opening in the group and quickly makes his move, maneuvering so he’s out front and to the side. The smart alphas and himself turn away from the main area as the rest of the group surges forward into the middle of the woods.

 

        Runners will most likely be hiding in the deepest, darkest parts of the area. Luckily, that is where George thrives. 

 

        He keeps running, relishing the feel of the ground beneath his paws for a few moments before he catches a scent. He turns quickly towards it and grins as he chases an alpha out from behind a bush. It takes one good leap before he has the alpha pinned, his teeth around it’s throat but not putting any pressure. A beta official appears out of nowhere, nodding at George as a signal to continue on, so he does.

 

        He gives into his wolf and after a few hours, he’s caught over ten alphas. The feat within itself is impressive. He doesn’t run into Dream, Sapnap, Punz, or Wilbur and his friends for which he is grateful. In fact, he manages to stay away from all other hunters, remaining hidden and sneaking up on his prey so they don’t have a chance to fight back. Despite his dire situation and need to save Winnow, he’s having fun.

 

        George sinks into the bushes. He can smell another alpha, one of the runners, making its way towards him. He raises his hutches, ready to pounce. The moon is almost at its peak, any minute they will call the horn to signal the end of the first hunt and roles will be switched. He needs this last point.

 

        A gray wolf pokes its head out between two trees, glancing around before deeming it safe. All it takes is one step into the open before George lunges, teeth snapping and pining the larger wolf in between the two trees. Once again, the beta official slinks into the cleaning, nodding once before the horn sounds. 

 

        George releases his grasp as the alpha gets up, grumbling, and begins running towards the front of the course where the wolves will reconvene quickly for some water and to hear score announcements before switching roles. 

 

        He didn’t realize how deep he’d gone into the woods as the starting point comes into view. He spots Punz and Sapnap immediately and makes his way over to them, shifting when he gets close.

 

        He stumbles for a second after shifting, taking a second to get a grip as some anxiety rushes back. Emotion control is always more effective in wolf form.

 

        “Heya,” Sapnap calls when he sees George, “How’d you do?”

 

        George can’t help but grin proudly, “Thirteen,” 

 

        Punz spits out his drink and Sapnap’s jaw drops. George grins smugly as Punz coughs, trying to regain his composure and Sapnap just stares.

 

        “ThirtEEN?” Sapnap squeaks finally, “and I was proud I got 9!” 

 

        “Damn George, that’s insane!” Punz compliments, finally gaining his composure.

 

        George just laughs as Sapnap hands him some water which he gulps down gratefully. He needs to be hydrated for the run because there’s no way in hell he can let someone catch him.

 

        “Welcome back competitors,” Sharp stands on the podium, arms spread wide, “You are officially ⅓ of the way through the competition,” The customary cheers ring out before fading.

 

        “Now,” Sharp continues, “my son, Dream, will read out the current leads,”

 

        Dream steps up as his father falls back slightly. Sapnap cheers abnormally loud, probably to embarrass his soon-to-be mate. Dream clears his throat once the noise has subsided.

 

        “Beginning with the runners, in the lead we have Jschlatt in third, Technoblade in second, and A6D in first, separated by a mere point each,” the crowd yells loudly and George sees the flash on pink hair as Techno is congratulated, Schlatt and this A6D guy probably getting the same treatment nearby.

 

        “Now for the hunters,” Sapnap nudges George with a knowing smile which he returns, “In third place we have Wilbur, Sapnap in second, and in first, George,”

 

        “Fuck,” Punz exclaims but George barely hears it as eyes turn to him, alphas mouths dropping open before cheering erupts.

 

        “Don’t worry, Punzy. There’s still the run,” Sapnap calls but he’s beaming at George, who looks away from the intense gaze. 

 

        “Settle down, settle down,” Sharp calls over the crowd, bringing the attention back up to the front. George frowns, Sharp looks pissed.

 

        “You have five minutes before the next section starts, I recommend you rest. You’ll need it,” Sharp exits and the crowd falls back into it’s excited buzz but George can tell he’s the topic of most of the conversation.

 

        “I can’t believe the omega’s in first,” one wolf mutters nearby.

 

        “He must’ve cheated,” another comments.

 

        “Maybe he had help from the High Alphas. I heard Sapnap’s been defending him,”

 

        “I bet he gets out the fist five minutes he’s running,”

 

        “Don’t listen to them,” George looks up to see Sapnap smiling but his eyes flash, “They’re just jealous they’re not in first, or top three for that matter,”

 

        George just smiles in reply, he had expected this. He takes a few more sips of water before starting back towards the beginning of the woods. He wants to be near the front when runners are released.

 

        Sapnap and Punz break away from him for a second to go get some more water so he waits near the front when familiar scents fill his nose.

 

        “Hello, omega,” he whirls around to face Wilbur, Schlatt, and Techno, all grinning down at him. Well, Schlatt and Wilbur are grinning, Techno looks bored.

 

        “What do you want?” he forces himself to reply, standing his ground as his wolf growls angrily.

 

        Wilbur throws his head back and laughs, “We just wanted to wish you good luck,”

 

        “You’re gonna need it,” Schlatt growls, jerking forward so George jumps back. This gets a laugh out of Techno as the three begin to walk away. 

 

        Before George can breathe a sigh of relief, Techno leans in, “You better be fast, I’ll be huntin’ you,”

 

        His whole body stills as Techno smirks before strutting away, the wolves clearing a path from him as he goes. His wolf growls aggressively but he turns away. He needs to focus, for Winnow. His wolf calms slightly but not enough that he isn’t on edge when Sapnap and Punz return a second later, bickering like Skeppy and Bad.

 

        “Technically I already beat you,” Sapnap is saying, waving a bottle of water around enthusiastically.

 

        “No you haven’t,” Punz replies, exasperated, “I can get enough points to beat you during the run,”

 

        Sapnap snorts, “There’s no way. If you get in the finals, I’ll buy you bacon for a month,”

 

        “Deal,”

 

        “Deal,” 

 

        They finally notice George but before anyone can talk, Sharp is back on the podium. George tries not to grin but he can’t help it, it’s time to run.

 

        “It’t time for the second section of our competition to begin. Everyone shift,” Sharp commands, waiting for everyone to shrink down before quickly continuing, “Runners, you may go in three,”

 

        George’s wolf yaps excitedly as he lowers himself.

 

        “Two,”

 

        The other wolves begin howling in anticipation.

 

        “One,” 

 

        George breathes out.

 

        “RUN!”

 

        He springs forward, quickly leaving the other wolves in the dust. If he is good at hunting, he’s incredible at running. He bounds straight into the woods, not bothering to change his course from a dead sprint forward until the trees are so close together they block out the moonlight. He hears a second chorus of howls, the hunters have been released.

 

        He pushes himself faster, Techno’s threat ringing in his ears. He needs to be as far away from the main area as possible and then some, without leaving the perimeter though. It would be so embarrassing if he got disqualified for stepping outside the perimeter.

 

        George shakes his head, giving up a bit more control to his wolf. The Moon Games are all about instincts, which alphas generally follow without much thought. Omegas on the other hand, they have more control over their instincts and tend to suppress them more, that’s why they usually never compete in these types of competitions and never win.

 

        He doesn’t slow his pace for about an hour, focusing on just running and staying ahead of the hunters.

 

        George finally slows to a stop by a river, catching sight of the full moon in the water’s reflection and daring to lap up two gulps before swimming across it. The water will help hide his scent and he is downwind so his scent will be even more hidden.

 

        Shaking the access water from his fur, he starts running again. Not as fast or as hard as before, but it’s crucial he keeps moving. If you stop for too long, that’s how you get caught.

 

        He keeps up this pattern for a few more hours until the sky starts to lighten. He only has to last a little longer before the horn sounds but he’s exhausted. Between running, his wolf suppressing his emotions, and the lack of sleep he’s gotten the past few days, he feels like he could collapse right here and nap for days but he forces himself to keep moving. Just a little longer.

 

        George enters a clearing when the wind shifts slightly and he catches a whiff of the alpha, just in time to turn and see a large white wolf with pink ears lunging at him.

 

        Technoblade.

 

        He snaps his jaws as he dodges the alpha’s attack and takes off through the clearing. Technoblade hot on his heels as pure adrenaline pumps through him, setting him on a high. He needs to get back into the trees where he can lose him.

 

        His lungs burn and for a second he’s reminded of when he ran from Ragnar, escaping his abusive household. Then, the memories disappear completely as his wolf takes over completely. He’s in survival mode.

 

        Despite his talent, Technoblade manages to corner him. He snarls as another wolf appears beside Techno, this one with brown fur. Schlatt. Shit.

 

        George backs himself until his hind is pressed against a large rock, protecting him from an attack from behind. He growls as Techno and Schlatt corner him in. He only has to last a bit longer.

 

        “Look what I caught,” Techno snarls, “the pretty little omega. You couldn’t hide from me,”

 

        Schlatt takes a step forward, “How about we have some fun, eh?” 

 

        George bares his teeth as the alphas laugh. Why haven’t they attacked him yet?

 

        “Omega, sit,” Techno commands and George’s stomach churns as he moves to obey. He’s using his alpha voice and there’s nothing George can do to stop himself from following their orders. He’s completely at their mercy.

 

        The alphas laugh as Schlatt takes a turn, “roll over,”

 

        George does as he says, his head aching with his attempts to refuse.

 

        “Bare you neck to me,” Techno demands. George growls helplessly as his body moves to show his neck to Techno, a sign of submission.

 

        It isn’t until the alphas, laughing manically, begin to move towards him does his wolf lose it, fighting harder than ever before for control.

 

        George growls and wiggles but he’s stuck, his head pounds mercilessly as his wolf takes over completely. Techno is just brushing his teeth along George’s exposed neck, Schlatt nosing the other side when he rips away from their control. The alphas jump back in surprise as George lets out a bone-chilling howl that is purely wolf, no human to be found.

 

        “How’d you do that? You can’t escape alpha voice commands!” Schlatt yells but the Goerge is to out of it to reply, instead his wolf stalks towards the alphas growling lowly and dangerously. Even Techno backs up a few steps. He’s just about to pounce when two betas and Sapnap burst through the bushes.

 

        One beta tackles George, pinning him down, while the other beta and Sapnap force Techno and Schlatt onto their backs.

 

        “USING YOUR ALPHA VOICE IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED!” Sapnap roars at the two, “YOU ARE A DISGRACE TO THE FAOLAN PACK AND ARE BANISHED FROM NOW ON!”

 

        More beta officials appear as Techno and Schlatt are led away, both glaring at a snarling George as they go. George tries to talk but his wolf is still in control, desperately trying to throw the beta off him. Sapnap turns and his gaze softens as he lays down by George.

 

        “Can he hear me?” he asks the beta earnestly.

 

        “His wolf is in control right now, I don’t know how long. I’ve never seen someone resist the alpha voice before, he can most likely still hear you though,” the beta replies, straining under the effort of holding George down.

 

        “George,” Sapnap addresses him gently. His wolf calms immediately at the alpha's voice, giving in just enough for George to regain control. He stops struggling against the beta, breathing deeply.

 

        “I’m alright,” he chokes out. Sapnap’s relief is imminent as the beta gets off of him. He pulls himself to his feet, Sapnap following his movements carefully when the horn sounds, ringing out through the trees.

 

        “Are you sure you're okay? I- I can’t smell you anymore,” Sapnap exclaims. George goes to brush him off when he realizes he can’t smell anything either.

 

        “I can’t smell anyone!” he panics, glancing around. There are two wolves in this clearing beside himself, he should be able to smell them. He inhales again, looking around panicked as he isn’t met with the familiar forests scent of everoaks.

 

        “It’s okay, deep breaths George,” Sapnap comforts, pressing against him. George leans into the larger wolf, trying to calm down.

 

        “You’re going to be okay,” the beta adds earnestly, “I’ve never seen anyone resist the alpha voice, it probably took a lot out of you. I’m willing to bet you’ll be back to normal after some rest,”

 

        George can only nod as Sapnap begins to lead him back to the start, his wolf still prominent and freaking out. He squeezes his eyes shut as a migraine tears through him, making him shake.

 

        If Sapnap notices he doesn’t do anything except press closer to George’s shaking body, sharing his warmth.

 

        The walk takes longer than normal since they had to stop so George could shift and throw up. Sapnap shifted with him and sent the beta ahead to let Sharp know they were fine and he should just continue without them.

 

        Now, George was leaning heavily on Sapnap as the large group came into view. George hated all the eyes on him.

 

        “Finally,” Sharp booms, annoyed. It’s clear he didn’t do what Sapnap asked and instead, waited for them to return so he could embarrass George, because why should anything go his way today.

 

        “What happened?” Punz asks, meeting them and settling on the other side of George to help hold him up. He hated that they were helping him walk but he was too tired to fight it as his head drooped slightly.

 

        “Techno and Shlatt used their alpha voices on him,” Sapnap growled.

 

        Punz gasps as he helps George take a step forward, “You banished them?” 

 

        Sapnap nods tightly.

 

        “Good,”

 

        “Now, for our finalists!” Sharp yells over the crowd.

 

        George knows some gazes leave him but he feels completely off, he can’t smell or sense anything. It’s making him nervous but right now, all he wants to do is lay down and sleep. He forces himself to pull his eyes upward, looking at Sharp. His vision is fuzzy, just blurry blobs on the stage.

 

        “Before I announce our finalists, I have some news,” Sharp’s voice drops, “Respected alphas Technoblade and Jschlatt have been accused of using their alpha voices on the omega competing,”

 

        Great.

 

        “Accused?” Sapnap hisses, “They did! Don’t worry, George. I’ll sort it out, alright?”

 

        Angry and confused murmurs rose through the alphas as glares landed back on George. 

 

        Sharp continued, “We will be looking into the allegations but for now, Techno and Schlatt are disqualified from the Games,”

 

        More angry murmurs arose as Punz and Sapnap pressed closer to George. They’re probably glaring at any alphas trying to challenge them but George can’t be bothered to look up, starting to feel like he’s underwater as the sound around him comes in and out of clarity.

 

        “Now for our top five competitors,” Dream is talking now, his voice tight as he forces a smile, “In fifth, Punz,”

 

        “Fuck yes!” Punz hisses. George wishes he had the energy to feel excited but nervousness overtakes him. This is it.

 

        “In forth, A6D. In third, Wilbur Soot,”

 

        George sighs. Of course, Wilbur is in the top five. Now he might have to fight him.

 

        “In second, Sapnap,” Dream’s voice lightens a bit as he says his future mates’ name.

 

        George feels Sapnap breathe out beside him.

 

        “And in first place,” Dream pauses as suspension builds. George feels like he wants to throw up, “George!”

 

        He lets out a sigh of relief as Sapnap whoops. A few other claps ring out but it’s obvious the alphas don’t approve of the victor. George couldn’t care less though, he’s one step closer to saving Winnow and that’s all the matters.

 

        “Our five finalists will report here at sundown tonight to fight it out until one victor remains!” Dream finishes. The crowd goes wild once more as Sharp steps back up.

 

        “Finalists, you are dismissed for now. I recommend you get some sleep and some food, you’ll need the energy for tonight. See you then!”

 

        The crowd cheers once more before the alphas begin dispersing, sending glares at George as they go. His eyes begin to sink as he starts to feel painfully disoriented. His limbs grow heavy. Someone may be calling his name but he slumps over, unable to keep himself upright any longer.

Notes:

Y'all I am so sorry for the wait but this chapter is HEFTY and I wasn't even done writing it lmao. I cut it short because I wanted to get something up for you guys.

Also, I know I said uploading was going to become more frequent but I underestimated how much stuff I have going on so I'm sorry to say that for now, chapters are going to be more spread out. I hope you guys can understand <3

Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed it!

p.s. I don’t know why the spaces between lines are so big now but I don’t know how to fix it so it is what it is lol

Chapter 4: Chapter Three: The Request

Summary:

CW // TW / CHILD ABUSE , ABUSE , PTSD , ANXIETY & PANIC ATTACKS , AND GRAPHIC FIGHT SCENES THAT MAY BE UNSETTLING

-PLEASE TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF AND DO NOT READ IF ANY OF THESE TOPICS ARE TRIGGERING FOR YOU! I LOVE YOU!-

        George forces his eyes open, blinking several times to get everything to focus as blurry shapes hover over him.

 

“George! Can you hear me?” one voice asks. 

 

        He tries to reply but his tongue feels like lead in his mouth. They must’ve read his mind because a few seconds later he’s being propped up against someone's chest as another pair of hands gently pour water in his mouth. He swallows obediently and instantly feels slightly better as his vision begins to sharpen.

 

The first thing that comes into focus is Chant and Bad crouched down in front of him, Skeppy hovering worriedly behind them.

 

“Wha’ hapnd?” George chokes, feeling exhausted.

 

“You passed out,” a voice near his ear supplies. 

 

        He glances up to see Sapnap’s worried gaze. It takes him a few more seconds to realize he’s leaning on him, the alpha holding him up. Yet, he doesn’t feel the need to move.

 

“Fun,” he says, leaning back. 

 

Chant rolls his eyes but Bad still looks anxious.

 

“‘m fne,” he says but Bad looks far from convinced.

 

        “You passed out! That is not fine,” he argues, crossing his arms, “Not to mention resisting an alpha command! I didn’t know we could do that! And we can’t smell or sense you anymore, it’s like you’re not even here,”

 

        “‘Ow long wa I out fo?” he asks instead, looking to Chant. He can’t deal with his loss of smell right now or he might start crying and that is not happening in front of everyone.

 

“Maybe 5 minutes? Punz ran to grab a medic,”

 

George immediately feels panicked, “No, no medic. ‘m fine!” 

 

        To prove his point he pushes himself to his feet, ignoring his friend’s protests and Sapnap’s hand, only to sway and collapse backward into another warm body. How many people are witnessing this right now? He looks up to see Dream giving him an amused smile before lowering him back to the ground.

 

“Geez, George. At least have some more water,” Bad mutters, kneeling by him so he can press the jug to his mouth.

 

        George has the sense to feel embarrassed but if he’s being honest with himself, his limbs feel like they’re being tied down and his whole body is shaking with exhaustion. He lets Bad slowly pour water down his throat until half of the bottle is gone. At that point, Punz returns with a beta medic in tow, the same one who treated him in the woods.

 

        “Well you’re having a rough day,” the beta comments, joining Bad on the ground. He just grunts in reply, choosing to focus on Sapnap and Dream helping hold him up.

 

“He passed out after the ceremony,” Sapnap tells them. 

 

        The beta nods in understanding, “As I said earlier, you’re exhausted. You need some food and rest and hopefully, you should be feeling much better before the fight tonight,”

 

        They turn to Chant, no doubt smelling Goerge on him and figuring they live together, “Take him home and make sure he gets some protein and tons of water. Everything should work itself out but if he starts feeling worse, send for me. My name is Bai,”

 

Chant nods before coming over and hooking an arm under George’s, “Alright, home we go,”

 

        “Fun,” he murmurs once more as Chant scoffs and pulls him up, Dream and Sapnap standing with him. He can feel Sapnap’s hands on his waist in case he falls, the touch makes him shiver slightly.

 

“We’ll walk with you,” Skeppy says as Bad comes to his other side.

 

“Let us know if he gets worse,” Sapnap says, coming into view.

 

Bai nods, smiling at George before heading off.

 

“Feel better, George! See you tonight,” Dream calls as they begin to walk away.

 

“Make sure you rest!” Sapnap says, waving.

 

George sends them an exhausted smile, hoping it conveys how thankful he is that they care.

 

“You are a walking disaster,” Chant chides the second they start moving.

 

“Oh, shut up,” George replies but he’s too tired to put any heat behind his words. Chant seems to notice this and tightens his grasp.

 

        “You need to stop giving me heart attacks,” Bad says, his hand clenching around the fabric on George’s shirt. 

 

        “No promises,” he mutters before he allows his head to drop, trusting Bad and Chant to keep him upright.

 

        George must’ve spaced out because suddenly he’s being gently lowered into his bed and his blanket is being tucked around his shoulders.

 

        “I’ll wake you up with time to eat before the fight,” he hears Chant murmur as a gentle hand runs through his hair.

 

He doesn’t reply, letting himself drift off to sleep instead.

 

__________________________________________________

 

“George, I made some chicken,” 

 

George groans as he’s roused from his sleep. Everything still feels a little foggy and his senses haven’t returned.

 

“I still can’t sense anything,” he says, rubbing his eyes and trying to ignore the dread in his stomach.

 

        “I can’t sense you either,” Chant replies grimly, “Don’t worry about it too much, I’m sure you just need a full night's rest and some food. I bet you’ll be back to normal by tomorrow,”

 

        George nods once but he’s panicking inside. Something tells him he won’t be getting his senses back anytime soon but he doesn’t have time for that. A quick glance outside confirms his suspicions, the sky's alight with a million colors as the sun begins to sink towards the horizon. The beauty seems more like a mockery considering the circumstances. He has maybe two hours, possibly less, before he’ll be in a ring with alphas fighting for a chance at Winnow’s freedom.

 

Splendid.

 

        He follows Chant into the hallway and hears his stomach rumble at the sight of the food. Hurriedly taking a bite, he groans his appreciation and tries to settle his nerves.

 

“This is delicious, thank you,”

 

“No problem. You need all the protein you can get,”

 

George sends him a grim smile as he finishes his meal, watching the final golden hues illuminate the kitchen.

 

“I guess I should get going,” George murmurs.

 

Chant signs and runs his hands through his hair, “Yeah, we should probably go,”

 

        The two share another look and head out the door, shifting immediately. George notices with a stab in his gut that he has no senses in his wolf form either. Winning the Moon Games just got a lot harder.

 

        Attempting not to freak himself out, George focuses on the feeling of the soft ground under his paws. He counts his strides as he goes and it proves a worthy distraction until the arena comes into view. It’s been converted from the vast area last night to a smaller circle enclosed by elevated stands so wolves can watch. It’s still big enough that competitors will be able to run around but now they can be seen at all times with little places to hide. Well, there goes the best chance George had at winning, even with his screwed senses. His and Winnow’s futures are in the hands of fate now.

 

        Shaking his coat, Chant presses into his side as the two head towards the other competitors. George notices with a start that Punz and Wilbur are the only alphas already here. He feels himself begin to shake as Wilbur’s cool gaze turns to him, glaring. He immediately backs up a step but Chant steps into his vision, drawing his attention.

 

“Hey, you need to calm down. You’re okay. This is the last task, alright?” 

 

George nods, unable to speak as he takes another step forward.

 

“I’m gonna go get a seat in the stands, you’ve got this. Remember to breathe, okay?” 

 

        George smiles gratefully at Chant, watching his friend begin to weave through the crowd. He takes a deep breath as his last bit of comfort leaves and forces himself to meet Wilbur’s eyes, feeling his wolf stir slightly inside him. Thankfully with his senses gone, he isn’t overwhelmed with alphas. He only has to worry about Wilbur but memories still threaten to invade him.

 

“George!”

 

George jumps, spinning around with teeth bared only to be met with two familiar wolves.

 

“Woah, you’re okay. It’s just me and A6D,” Sapnap says, taking a step back to give him more space.

 

George forces himself to breathe, “I’m- I’m sorry,”

 

“No no, it’s not your fault. I shouldn’t have snuck up on you like that, that’s my bad,”

 

George smiles gratefully and huddles slightly closer to Sapnap, the alpha making him feel immensely safer.

 

“Do you want to head over to the podium? Dream should be over there,” Sapnap says, head craning as he looks.

 

“Yeah, let’s go,” 

 

“I’m going to go see Punz,” A6D says, nodding once to George before heading off.

 

        George follows behind Sapnap as he clears a path to the podium, wolves seamlessly moving out his way. Soon, he sees Dream stretched out in the grass next to a much smaller platinum blonde wolf.

 

        “Alyssa!” Sapnap exclaims, speeding up as the small wolf stands up, “I haven’t seen you in forever!”

 

        “I was in the area and wanted to stop by! I didn’t know you were competing this year,” Alyssa exclaims. Her voice is smooth and George can’t help but like listening to her speak.

 

Dream catches his eye a second later, sending him a smile as he gets to his feet.

 

“Alyssa, this is George. George, this is Alyssa!” 

 

Alyssa turns to face him, studying him warmly with shining blue eyes.

 

“Hi! It’s nice to meet you!” she says.

 

        George smiles back shyly, unable to form any words as his anxiety spikes. Alyssa seems kind but years of instilled fear of strangers keep him from engaging.

 

        “He’s shy,” Sapnap supplies, giving George a teasing grin at which he rolls his eyes. Dream laughs and comes to stand beside him, nudging him gently with his nose.

 

        George waits as the three catch up, choosing instead to focus on his plan for the final game. He’s at a severe disadvantage with his loss of senses and the lack of hiding places in the arena but if he can outlast the competition til there’s one wolf left, then maybe he can win. Suddenly, his breathing stops. What if he has to fight Sapnap? He looks at the wolf, feeling panicked before deciding that he just has to hope it doesn’t come to that.

 

A horn sounds over the area, all the wolves looking up at once.

 

“I guess it’s time!” Sapnap exclaims, looking way too excited.

 

“Good luck!” Dream says, touching his nose to Sapnap’s in farewell.

 

“Don’t get too hurt!” Alyssa smiles.

 

“Alright George, we got this,” Sapnap says, turning back to him. George just nods.

 

“You’ll do great,” Dream calms, smiling gently before he takes Alyssa with him to start the last game.

 

“C’mon,” Sapnap says, pressing close to George’s side as they walk to where the final competitors are set to meet.

 

        George mostly keeps his eyes down, trying not to psyche himself out, til they reach the other wolves. Punz greets him happily, stepping in between him and Wilbur. George doesn’t know if the movement was intentional but he’s thankful nonetheless. 

 

        “Finalists!” Sharp’s voice rings out once again, “Welcome to the Final Battle! Today a victor will be crowned! The rules are simple, no maiming to kill and no leaving the arena. Beta medics will mediate fights, a fight is over when one wolf is pinned or cannot continue. Let the Game begin!”

 

        The wolves howl and yap as five pups come up to the victors to take them to their starting places around the arena where they will wait til the horn sounds and they are released.

 

        George is paired with a young girl pup with a fiery orange coat who is all too excited to be near him. 

 

        “You are my new role model,” she exclaims the second they start walking. Sapnap chuckles behind them as they separate which lightens George’s mood.

 

        “I just can’t believe it. An omega! Like me! In the Moon Games! It’s just, wow. I’m going to compete when I’m older too, just like you,” she turns to grin at him.

 

George smiles at her, “I hope it works out,” 

 

He mentally facepalms. He’s so bad at giving advice it should be illegal but the small pup just grins and stops at a gate.

 

        “Here’s your starting place! You may enter when the horn sounds in about a minute or two. Good luck! We’re all cheering for you! The omegas, that is. You got this,” the pup bounds off, leaving George equally touched and stressed.

 

        Shaking his coat, he steps up to the gate and studies what he can see. Luckily, he seems to have been placed on the side with dense trees but it does limit his knowledge of the rest of the arena. Seeing it from the outside is much different than being in it.

 

        Seconds later, George’s heart drops as a jarring horn rings out through the area and the gate opens. The crowd cheers so loudly he doesn’t hear the gate close behind him after the steps into the woods. 

 

        Everything seems to catch up to him at once as he cowers back, feeling too trapped and out of control. 

 

        George curled up on the stone floor, shaking and exhausted. He hadn’t eaten in days and the water he had been given had been peed in. His eyes were strained from trying to see through the bruising surrounding them into the pitch black of the basement he had been locked in. A creak echoed through the empty room as the door atop the stairs swung open, revealing his father.

 

        “Please let me out, I’m sorry!” he whimpered as his father came down the steps. He was swiftly rewarded with a kick to the side, a steel-toed boot pins him to the ground.

 

“You know why you’re in here, filthy omega,”

 

        A shadow blocks some of the light from the door. George glances up to see Winnow staring down at him, a frown on her young features as she tugs on her brown hair.

 

With a gasp, George finds himself on the floor of the arena with Bai shaking him. 

 

“George? Are you okay?” 

 

“I’m fine,” he manages to mutter. Bai gives him an unconvinced look but nods, disappearing back into the trees. 

 

George breathes deeply, centering himself as he thinks about Winnow. He’s in this for her, she needs him.

 

        The thought seems to be enough to get him moving as he begins to stalk through the forest, coming up to the edge to observe the fighting going on in the center and check the standing on the main podium that can be seen from the middle of the arena.

 

         The final game is always very fast-paced but George is surprised to see that A6D and Punz have already been eliminated. The crowd close to him goes wild at where a fight must’ve just occurred. He goes to step back out of the open as Wilbur enters the clearing, blood staining his maw and the ground crunching beneath him. Wilbur whips to face him and as their eyes meet, his face breaks out into a chilling smile.

 

“Oh little omega, come out and play,” Wilbur calls, laughing as he saunters towards George. 

 

        George’s heart pounds in his chest as he looks around desperately for something he can use to his advantage. He needs to escape but he can’t risk running into Sapnap if he flees into the woods. Glancing upward, his eyes find Dream who is standing alert at the very edge of the podium watching intensely. 

 

“Let’s have a little fun, shall we?” Wilbur taunts as he enters striking distance. 

 

        George forces himself down into a fighting position, trying to calculate the best way to strike when Sapnap bounds out of the bushes. He leaps and closes his teeth around Wilbur’s throat, tackling him to the ground. The crowd cheers loudly at the action as the two wolves begin circling each other, growling and snapping.

 

        Slinking backward, George watches fearfully for Sapnap as the two locks together in a tornado of teeth and claws. Dream looks ready to jump down in the arena himself as Sapnap slams into the ground, Wilbur latching onto his throat. Just like that, the fight is over as Sapnap is unable to get the large wolf off of him and Wilbur is called off by a beta medic. Wilbur releases, smiling dangerously as Sapnap stands up proudly, head held high as he’s led out of the arena. Once he is gone, Wilbur turns back around.

 

        “Alright, Georgie! Can’t escape me this time!” Wilbur yells, running towards the bushes.

 

        George reacts immediately, leaping out from his hiding spot and into the open area. Wilbur slams to a stop behind him, turning quickly to lunge. George dodges him easily, jumping from side to side as the larger wolf snarls angrily. Now that they are the only two in the arena, he has free reign to run wherever without fear of being captured. The thought gives him an idea as he takes off towards the rockier end of the field.

 

        “STOP RUNNING!” Wilbur growls, giving chase immediately.

 

        George picks up speed, his slender body zipping through the rocks until he finds one that is fairly tall. He scrambles up it, blood flowing from his pads as they slice open on the jagged edges.  Finally reaching the top, he turns and leaps down. Air rushes past his ears as Wilbur comes flying around the corner and they slam into each other. He hits the ground hard, a sickening crack echoed through the area and pain blooms up his side. George groans and pulls himself to his feet as Wilbur attacks with newfound viciousness, blood flowing from a cut of his face that George can’t locate. Wilbur snarls as he bites down on his shoulder, shaking George hard. Using his hind legs, George kicks out and connects with Wilbur’s throat. Forcing him to release his hold, George takes the opportunity to sink his teeth into Wil’s throat. He latches on, refusing to let go. What seems like an eternity later, the two are being separated by a beta and herded away from each other.

 

        “George! You won,” Bai says as they shift and begin assessing him, “You did it!” 

 

        Nothing feels real as George sways slightly, hardly processing the news. He did it. He won. He lays down on the ground, trying to alleviate the pain in his side as he smiles slightly. He didn’t let Winnow down.

 

“George, I need you to stay with me here,” Bai murmurs.

 

“I’m here,” he replies as Bai shifts and begins to wrap bandages around his paws.

 

“I’ll need you to stand up so I can splint your ribs, you cracked one,”

 

George complies and let’s Bai finish his bandaging as Dream runs up to them, looking incredibly concerned. 

 

“What’s hurt? How can I help?”

 

        “He’s got a broken rib and his paws are cut up pretty bad but I can put some salve on that after the closing ceremony and bind his ribs a bit better in his human form,” Bai responds and catches a glimpse of George’s panicked look, “Don’t worry, we can wait to shift till you get back to your house, alright?”

 

        George nods, letting out a breath that causes him to grimace immediately. Dream is by his side in an instant, hovering worriedly and shifting his weight on his paws.

 

        “I’m okay,” George says but Dream looks far from convinced.

 

        “C’mon, let’s get this over with so you can go rest,” he mumbles as he walks with George to the main podium where Sharp and Sapnap are waiting.

 

        Sapnap sends George a worried glance as they approach but he just shakes them off as he tries to focus on how he’s going to ask Sharp to save his sister. 

 

        Sharp glares down at him as Dream leads him up to stand in front of the High Alpha. George cowers slightly as his nerves rise ever more but stays where he is as Dream and Sapnap take their places on either side of Sharp.

 

        “May I present to you,” Sharp yells, addressing the crowd, “the first omega winner of the Moon Games, George,”

 

        Immediately there is an outbreak of whoops from the omegas, building until Sap and Dream are grinning and Sharp has to try several times to get the crowd to quiet. George would love to appreciate their support but he can’t do anything other than run over his request in his head over and over again.

 

        “Now, victor, what is your request?” Sharp asks. George gulps as he opens his mouth, no words forming for a few seconds until he finds his voice.

 

        “I request the pack’s help to rescue my little sister from an abusive situation,” he finally says. Sapnap and Dream’s faces immediately turn to horror as Sharp nods at him to explain further, “I am the youngest son of Shaye, the High Alpha of the eastern Ragnar pack. In the Ragnar pack, omegas are treated as slaves and abused by alphas,” George keeps his gaze down, feeling far too many eyes on him, “When I showed as an omega at 14, I was abused and discarded until I could escape at 18 and find sanctuary here. My younger sister just turned 14 and showed as an omega. I request your help in freeing her from my parent’s house before she can endure what I did,”

 

        He risks a lookup to see Dream and Sapnap looking absolutely mortified as they gaze down at him. Sharp’s expression is stoic as always as he considers his request.

 

“I’m sorry you had to go through such events at the hands of your family but I’m afraid I cannot help you,”

 

George’s heart drops, “But-”

 

        “No. I will not risk the wellbeing of my pack for one girl. If we entered Ragnar land and kidnapped the youngest child of the High Alpha it will no doubt be seen as a declaration of war,”

 

“Dad, we can’t just leave-” Dream interrupts angrily at the same time Sapnap snaps “We have to help her!”

 

        Sharp cuts them off, addressing Dream, “Son, you and Sapnap will become the High Alphas of this pack. You will need to put your family first,”

 

        Sapnap and Dream refuse to back down as they come to stand beside George. The other wolves in the area are shifting uneasily as their current and future leaders argue. George is grateful for the two as they defend him, he needs this to work.

 

        “Dad, we are putting family first. George is a part of this pack and we need to help him. I will not stand by as innocent omegas are injured, this is a pack we need to attack if they treat their omegas this badly! They deserve to be freed!” Dream says, earning a few whoops from the crowd.

 

        Sharp narrows his eyes, “Dream, we don’t even know if this omega is telling the truth. What if these are lies to get us to attack a pack and suffer through a war?” 

 

        George backs up as Sapnap and Dream move forward to shield him from the view of Sharp.

 

        “Do not talk to him like that. Do not invalidate what he’s been through,” Sapnap growls dangerously.

 

        Dream sends him a warning look as Sharp’s anger begins to rise, “Dad, please. We don’t need a lot of people, just a few wolves to get George’s sister. We’ll be in and out in no time and while we’re there we can assess the other omegas and decide afterward how to proceed. George won the Moon Games and this is his wish. No matter what we need to follow through,”

 

        Sharp glares at his son for a minute before sighing and turning around, “Fine. Your wish will be granted but this mission will be discussed privately and under my terms. Meet me at the main house immediately,”

 

        George looks down in relief, ignoring his pain for just a second of happiness. This is happening, he can save her.

 

“George, you did it!” Chant yells, rushing over to tackle him into a bear hug which he thankfully avoids.

 

“Careful, he’s got at least one broken rib,” Dream interjects before Chant can look too hurt at George’s movement.

 

Chant glares at him, finally taking in the bandages, “What are you doing standing up? BAD!”

 

“No no no, don’t call Bad over. He’s just going fuss-” George stutters but it’s too late.

 

“George! What happened? Where are you hurt?” Bad yelps, running over with Skeppy trying to keep up.

 

Sapnap snorts behind him, coughing to try to cover it up which earns him a hard look from George. Dream just looks amused as Bad continues to fuss over him.

 

“Bad, I’m fine. Really,” George says, backing out of his reach. He gets four separate scoffs at his reply.

 

“I’m fine! Let’s go to this meeting and Bai can fix me up after,” he argues. 

 

“You’re not fine, you’re an idiot but whatever,” Chant says, rolling his eyes.

 

“Normally I’d drag you to the house and force you to rest but Winnow needs you so just this once, George!” Bad replies.

 

“Do you have anything to add?” George says, turning on Skeppy who’s been standing behind Bad. 

 

Skeppy shrugs and smiles, “Whatever Bad says goes,”

 

“Smart man,” Sapnap mumbles as Dream laughs. George can’t believe how many idiots he’s surrounded by.

 

“Can we go?” he brats, turning to Dream and Sapnap who study him before smirking, “Whatever you say,” 

 

        Everyone seems to sober up on the walk to the main house. Dream and Sapnap keep exchanging glances as if having their own silent conversation and as far as George knows, they are. Chant remains steady by his side even though they both flinch and huddle closer together when the alpha guards to the main house study them closely. Bad and Skeppy notice, Bad pressing against Chant and Skeppy standing on George’s other side.

 

        The doors are opened for them and they all follow Sapnap and Dream in as George tries to distract himself from the overwhelming fear crawling through his body. 

 

        The house is as grand inside as it looks on the outside and very much catered to Sharp’s taste. Everything is pristine, shining, and enclosed. There are no windows in the main room but every square inch is decorated in war finery from armor (human and wolf) to swords, bows, and long fangs. George shudders slightly and focuses on Chant at his side, quickly finding that using the house as a distraction will just make him feel worse.

 

        They are led down a large hallway branching off to the left of the main entrance hall. The floor is hard beneath his feet, making his bruised and swollen pads ache horribly but he ignores it in favor of staring into the war room.

 

“Holy shit,” Chant murmurs.

 

“Language,”

 

        The war room has a large table in the middle on which the surface is a map of the entire land from coast to coast. It marks mountains, lakes, the packs, deserts, forests, and everything in between.

 

        George’s eyes find the Ragnar pack on their own as he stares at the area, feeling a sharp pang of homesickness which he immediately feels disgusted for. There’s nothing about that place that can be remotely considered his home besides Winnow, and soon enough she’ll be out of there too. Nothing will tie him to the realm of his nightmares. The thought is oddly comforting as he takes his place at the table, Dream on one side and Chant on the other.

 

        “Alright George, how do we save her? Can Dream and I just go get her?” Sapnap asks but before he can get a word out Sharp cuts in.

 

“You and Dream will not be participating in this mission,”

 

Their heads snap up as they get ready to argue but Sharp isn’t done yet.

 

“No. Dream your birthday is in two weeks. I need you and Sapnap here during that time to officially mate and find your Luna,” 

 

“Dad, we’ll be back by then! You can’t stop us from going!”

 

“Yes, I can and I will,”

 

“But-”

 

“No, we can discuss this later. We need a plan,” this shuts them up for now but George can tell they aren’t done arguing.

 

Sharp turns to George, “Tell me everything you know,” 

 

        George cringes with the number of eyes on him but takes a breath and launches into a calculated explanation on how to get Winnow out safely.

 

        “The entire pack is set up to lure in omegas and trap them there. They may look easy to attack on the outside but do not be fooled. Alpha and trusted betas are always hiding nearby, you are never alone,” he continues, pointing out the locations he knows of where patrols like to ambush those leaving or entering and going over the training methods of the soldiers, “They are not a pack you want to fight head-on, especially in their own territory. Our best chance is to sneak in, get Winnow, and get out. Leave no trace,”

 

Sharp studies the map with intensity as he takes in every word George says, “I have a plan,”

 

__________________________________________________

 

        “I need to sit down,” 

 

        Chant can only nod at him as the two collapse on the couch in George’s apartment. 

 

“How’re you feelin?” he manages to ask, lifting his head to glance at Chant who’s laying face down.

 

Chant can only grunt a reply as the two lay still.

 

        They have been planning Winnow’s rescue for nearly four hours and unsurprisingly, the talk of this mission had gotten all the alphas in the room extremely riled up which did nothing for Chant. George could never keep it together around alphas but since he couldn’t sense their excitement and only observed it, he was doing better off than he usually would. Chant on the other hand had cowered in the corner, shaking violently with Skeppy and Punz stood in front of him for the better part of the entire meeting. Afterward, George had been ushered away by Bad to Bai, who had been nearby, to properly bind his ribs and give him some pain relief that was helping greatly. He heals very quickly in wolf form but he'll need a few days' rests. Unfortunately, a few days he did not have.

 

George is jolted out of his thoughts by a mighty snort that almost draws a laugh from him. He forgot how loud Chant snores. 

 

The idea pangs at him slightly as he sighs, once again somehow longing for a life that was nothing but horrible to him. His mind runs through all the omegas he once knew, wondering if they are okay. If they are still alive. He shudders as he remembers that as soon as when daylight breaks, he'll be on his way back to the place of his nightmares. Pulling a blanket more tightly around him, he snuggles up next to Chant as he forces his eyes closed.

 

The thoughts chase him into an unruly sleep.

Notes:

im so sorry this is so late and i cannot promise when the next upload will be but i love everyone whos sticking with the story. im sorry i cant be more reliable <3

also, i have no idea whats up with my formatting now but im just rolling w it

Chapter 5: Chapter Four: The Rescue

Summary:

__________________________________________________
CW // TW / CHILD ABUSE , ABUSE , PTSD , ANXIETY , PANIC ATTACKS , AND GRAPHIC FIGHT SCENES THAT MAY BE UNSETTLING

-PLEASE TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF AND DO NOT READ IF ANY OF THESE TOPICS ARE TRIGGERING FOR YOU! I LOVE YOU!-
__________________________________________________

“Winnow, cover yourself in mud the first chance you get and keep running West. Don’t stop, okay?” he pants.

“George-”

“No, I’ll lead them away. I promise I’ll catch up to you, just go,”

George grinds his teeth, a habit he thought he broke when he got to Faolan but the stress of what needs to be done has thrown his progress out the window. The very window where the sun is steadily climbing into the sky, a warning bell for the little amount of time he has left to pack.

Chant enters the room and frowns at the scene in front of him. George watches as he takes in the various items strewn across the floor, George sitting in the middle of it all.

“You know you leave in like 15 minutes, right?”

“Don’t remind me,”

Chant chuckles slightly as he leans down and begins picking up clothes, throwing them into the bag. George watches unhelpfully, grateful he doesn’t have to decide what to bring. He’s not very good about making decisions, that much became clear while planning for the mission. After several god awful ideas, Sharp not-so-kindly suggested he just observe.

“There,” Chant throws the bag down in front of him, “all packed, including an extra pair of underwear because I know you’re shitting yourself,”

George gives him an unamused look but it’s true. He’s scared. What happens if he gets trapped there and he can’t get out? The sacrifices he made to leave, the life he’s built here in Faolan, it would all be for nothing.

Chant seems to know exactly what’s running through his mind, “Hey, stop that. You’re going to make it out, they couldn’t keep you there if they tried. Besides, you’re not alone, you’re going in with some of the strongest alphas I’ve ever met. You and Winnow are gonna come back and we're gonna set up her room and eat at The Diner and we’re gonna be a family,”

George smiles at the touching words and the speed at which Chant said them. Leave it to him to ramble out something comforting. If he didn’t know him so well, he wouldn’t have understood one thing he said.

“Thank you,” he whispers instead, his voice not allowing him to be any louder.

“Anytime, Gogy,”

“You’re so annoying,”

“I know,”

A knock at the door pulls them from their teasing as George looks at Chant, his face betraying his fear. He gets a small smile in return before Chant stands up to go let in whoever’s been sent to fetch him.

Mumbled voices from down the hall draw him to his feet, forcing himself to pick up his bag and close his door behind him. He doesn’t bother to look at it one last time, he’ll be back. Hopefully.

“George?” Chant yells, obviously wanting him to hurry.

“I’m here, I’m here,” he replies as he turns the corner.

In their living room stands two alphas that George met briefly in the war room last night. They’re both in human form as one of the two steps forward.

“George, nice to formally meet you. I’m Lazar and this is Hbomb,”

George takes a breath and shakes his hand, noticing the Chant is looking awfully uncomfortable with the alpha’s presence in their home.

“We better get going,” he says, hoping to move this along.

“Of course, we can talk a bit more once we’re on the way,”

The two leave through the front as George gently wraps his arms around Chant. He’s not the most physical person but he can’t leave without letting Chant know how much he cares, especially if this goes south.

“Please be careful,”

“I’m always careful,”

He gets an eye roll at this.

“Whatever you say, go save Winnow,”

George forces himself to smile as he slings his bag over his shoulders and shifts into wolf form, following Lazar and Hbomb outside.

“George! Wait!” he turns to see Bad on a full sprint towards him, Skeppy actually struggling to keep up.

“I thought I was going to miss you,” he pants, gently nosing George.

“You caught me just in time, what’s up?”

“I just wanted to tell you to be careful, and that I’m sorry I can’t come with you,”

George noses back and leans against him, “It’s okay, I’d rather you guys be here anyway,”

Skeppy rests his head on Bad, “Don’t do anything stupid,”

“Skeppy!”

“What? I’m just giving advice!”

George chuckles but sees Lazar and Hbomb waiting for him.

“I promise I’ll be careful, take care of Chant for me?”

“You know we will,”

“Be back soon, I swear.”

“I’ll hold you to that,”

George says his final goodbye and finally follows after the two alphas. They walk in silence to the edge of Faolan where Punz is waiting with Sapnap and Dream. All three are in wolf form with the packs slung over their backs.

“I thought you guys couldn’t come?” George asks once they get closer, allowing himself to sneak closer to the duo.

“Dream’s very persuasive,” Sapnap remarks sarcastically, glancing at the blonde wolf.

Dream just grins, “Are we going or what?”

“I swear to god you two,” Hbomb mutters.

“If we get in trouble with Sharp because you two snuck out here I’m gonna be pissed,” Lazar adds, staring at them angrily.

“Did they sneak out?” George whispers to Punz.

“Gonna tell on us, Georgie?” Dream murmurs in his ear, earning him an annoyed glance from George on top of his rapidly increasing heartbeat at the alpha’s proximity.

Instead, he speeds up slightly so he’s walking next to Punz, listening intently as Lazar and Sapnap discuss Sap’s performance in the Moon Games. He can tell Dream is looking at him but he forces himself to keep his gaze forward. He doesn’t want to see his smug face, probably well aware of the reaction he got out of George.

__________________________________________________

They walk for awhile until Punz suggests they stop to rest, which George is immensely grateful for. He would never admit it but his ribs and paws are aching and breathing is getting difficult.

Dream seems to have a sixth sense when something is off because he immediately pats over and plops down next to George, studying him with obvious concern.

“Are your ribs hurting? Maybe we should change your bandages, especially the ones on your paws,”

George sends him an exasperated look. He doesn't need to be fussed over, “Nope, I’m doing great thank you very much,”

“Okay, whatever you say princess,”

“Don’t call me that,”

“Okay princess,”

Dream grins as George rolls his eyes and turns away from him to watch Sapnap walk over. He’s in his human form and carrying some water, food, and jesus christ, bandages.

“Alright Georgie, let’s see those paws,” he says cheerfully.

“You can’t escape this,” Dream chides, the idiot obviously smug.

“I hate you,”

“Yep. Whatever you say,”

George contents himself to silently fuming while trying not to lose it over the gentle way Sapnap is handling his wounds.

“Damn, you got some nice scrapes Gogy,” he comments, focusing intently as he applies disinfectant to the cuts.

He flinches at the sting but does his best to ignore it and soon, his paws are wrapped in fresh bandages.

“Feel better?” Sapnap asks, looking so concerned George feels forced to offer a response.

“Yes, thank you,”

The smile he gets in return is so worth it.

Punz interrupts the moment, claiming they he would take first watch while everyone else can get some rest.

George pounces at the opportunity, never one to shy away from a good sleep. As he curls up, however, he can’t help but look longingly on the way Sap and Dream wrap around eachother as they doze off. He wishes someone would hold him like that

These thoughts chase him to bed, filling his dreams with comfort and soft fur.

__________________________________________________

He’s decided that only psychopaths enjoy the wild, which is really saying something considering he’s a wolf.

George does his best to stretch out the aches in his body but they’ve been walking for ev er and Punz shows no signs of slowing down. He groans and forces himself to keep going, one paw in front of the other.

When he lived in Ragnar, he never left the safety of the walls surrounding the inner city. The only other time he’s been in the woods like this is when he first fled, and he was much to out of it during that time to even consider being unconfortable.

“Hey,”

The voice startles George, head whipping to the side to see Punz has dropped back to walk by him.

“Hey?”

“I just wanted to let you know that we’ll be at Ragnar by sundown,”

“Oh,” George swallows past the lump in his throat, “thanks,”

“Yeah, of course,”

This seems to be the end of the conversation but Punz sticks by his side, seeming to struggle with whatever else he was going to say. George urges him silently, this is getting awfully uncomfortable.

Finally, he speaks, “Just so you know, we won’t let anything happen to you. I know going back here can’t be easy so yeah, I just thought I’d tell you that,”

Punz clears his throat as George spares him a kind smile, “Thank you, really,” It does mean a lot, but he isn’t going to say that outloud.

He smiles back then picks up his pace, matching Lazar and Hbomb as they lead the way.

Punz’ spot is immediately replaced by Sapnap and Dream.

“What’d Punzy want?” Dream teases, raising his eyebrows imploringly.

“First off all, gross. Second of all, would you be jealous if he was?” George replies, watching as suprise adorns Dream’s features. He covers it quickly with a signature grin as Sapnap fails to supress his laugh.

George is almost proud of himself for catching Dream offguard until he leans in, warm breath tickling George’s neck as they walk.

“Do you want me to be jealous?”

George laughs him off until Sapnap leans in on his other side, trapping him between the two.

“Should we tell Punz to stop messing with what’s ours?”

Oh shit. Too deep.

He glances at Sapnap, mouth moving but no sound coming out, until the duo bursts into laughter. Relief spreads through him like wildfire. But also a little bit of disappointment.

“We got you good!” Sapnap gasps, literal tears forming in his eyes, “You should’ve seen your face!”

“Oh my god, you’re such an idiot,” George replies in a desperate attempt to protect his bruised ego.

“Georgie I’ve never seen someone blush in their wolf form before,” Dream says, a mischievious grin forming, “I guess there’s a first for everything.”

Sapnap practically howls as George smacks him.

“It is NOT that funny,” he fumes, trying to supress his own smile.

Dream lets out an astonishing wheeze that sends Sapnap over the edge and George into a fit of giggles. Within seconds the three of them are bumbing into eachother, legs turning to jello as they fall into hysterics.

George tries to calm himself down, his ribs screaming at his laughter but he can’t seem to control it. Come to think of it, he’s probably never laughed like this and god does he want it to last.

“Okay. OKAY. That’s enough you three,” Lazar snaps as George finally feels air rush into his lungs, “Do you need to separated or are you going to act like adults?”

George nods solemnly, studying the ground intently so he doesn’t burst out laughing again. One snicker from Sapnap or Dream and he’s gone but, thankfully, they remain silent. Probably due to years of being scolded by Sharp.

They fall into a comfortable silence as they walk, the sun sinking lower as George’s anxiety rises to match its pace. Soon, dusk lingers in the forest as the group comes to a halt.

“Alright, we’re almost in range of their scouts. It’s time,” Hbomb says, turning around to face them.

George is pretty sure they can hear his heart pounding in his chest or at least his blood rushing because it’s way to loud in his ears.

Dream sends him a concerned look and it takes every ounce of willpower in him to send a comforting smile back. Hopefully he buys it. He probably won’t.

The group makes their way South where a small river runs through the land and lather themselves in mud. They have a few miles before their even near the inner pack and can inact the plan so until then, it’s important they aren’t detected in any way.

Once the alphas are offcially covered, they start their slow trek into Ragnar territory. George sticks close to Sapnap and Dream as they walk quietly, nobody daring to say a word. Dream and Sapnap keep glancing at eachother so he’s sure they’re having a private conversation.

A few miles later, Sapnap comes to an abrupt stop in front of him. It’s time.

“Does everybody know what do to?” Lazar whispers, snapping George back to reality. Everybody nods.

He watches as Dream and Sapnap murmur quietly to eachother and touch noses.

“Okay, let’s do this,” Sapnap says as they break off to do their jobs. Sapnap and Dream each drape themselves over him reassuringly before they go.

“It’s going to work out, stay strong and stick to the plan,” Dream murmurs before he disappears with Lazar into the dense wood. Sapnap and Hbomb follow, leaving George alone with Punz.

“Just you and me now, are you sure you’re up for this?” Punz asks, looking way to concerned for someone George barely knows.

Still, he swallows his fear and nods, “Let’s go get Winnow,”

__________________________________________________

The plan is relatively simple. Sapnap and Hbomb are the “distraction” so to say. They have instructions to go to the Eastward emergency shed and start a small fire. George remembers it being set on fire many times during his youth, mostly due to it being a known spot for young pups to go mess around. Usually with contraband materials. George may have set the shed on fire once but that’s not important. Hopefully, little alarm will be raised since they’ll assume it’s just some kids and send a few of the patrolling alphas and betas to go put it out before it can spread.

This will clear a path for George and Punz to get in to the inner part of the pack. Punz will be lathered in the limited amount of scent suppressor they could find so they can’t be detected. George plays a crucial role in this part because he currently can’t be sensed in any way, shape, or form. Unlike Faolan, Ragnar’s inner pack is full or buildings pressed tightly together, making it very dark and compact. Additionally, Ragnar has a curfew in place and patrols will be in the streets all night. Luckily, George knows the perfect way to the alpha house. Once they get there, George will sneak in the same way he escaped three years ago, grab Winnow, and get out.

During all of this, Dream and Lazar will be tracking patrols as well as securing their escape route. With most of the patrols distracted with the fire, a small hydrangea bomb should knock out the southern guards. Boom, easy exit. If everything goes to plan, that is.

George watches as Punz knocks back a couple scent suppressing pills and then helps him lather the liquid counterpart over his scent glands and coat.

“Alright,” Punz glances at the moon, otherwise known as their only time indicator, and sighs, “We gotta go, come on. Stay close to me and if you see or hear anything, let me know,”

“Y-yeah,” George shudders as he glues himself to Punz’ side.

The duo start their trek into Ragnar land. George keeps his gaze firmly fixed into Punz’ coat. He’s supposed to be scanning the trees but the land is starting to look familiar and it’s taking a lot in him not to break down.

Heart pounding, they make it maybe 100 yards until Punz whispers “I smell the smoke,” and another 50 before a sharp “Down!”

George drops to the ground, refusing to move a muscle as he focuses on the sound of Punz’ steady breathing. The underbrush digs into his belly but its quickly overshadowed by the sound of paws rushing by them.

“Those fucking kids,” a voice growls nearby.

George almost shits himself.

“When are they going to learn,”

“If I catch them, I’m going to fucking kill them,”

Finally, the voices move on. George doesn’t realize he’s crying til Punz turns around and his face drops.

“Hey, it’s okay, we’re almost there,”

“No, no it’s just,” George starts but stops. Does he want to tell Punz about this? Especially right now?

Punz looks at him expectantly but he just shakes his head, “Nothing. It’s nothing. Come on, lets go,”

A sigh later, they’re both moving through the thick brush. Maybe three minutes later, Punz breaks into a sprint. Surprised, George stumbles after him but manages to find his footing and match the alpha’s pace. He doesn’t know why they’re running but he’s too paranoid of the beta scouts hearing them to really care.

Finally, he slows his pace, “Sorry, we were running a little behind,” he whispers.

George can only nod awknowledgingly.

“Ready?”

Another nod. They’re right on the outskirts. God, he doesn’t want to be here.

Punz falls back as George takes the lead, carefully climbing a nearby tree to get on top of the buildings. This is the best way to avoid patrols, especially since they have to get a 14 year old out.

A small scramble and a long leap later, George is standing on the first building. The feeling on it under his paws is enough to make him want to throw up. Punz jumps acorss a second later and the duo start their journey. Mostly jogging with small jumps whenever they need it.

They make up ground fast and too soon, George sees the alpha house. God fucking damn it. His breath becomes hardly managable when Punz hangs back to let him lead. This will be the hardest part, actually getting in and out. He can only pray that they’re keeping Winnow where they kept him.

He reaches the side of the house. They’ve repainted it in the time he’s been gone. It used to be a dark gray, like the ashes of a fresh fire. Now it’s a dark, maroon red. Like blood. Punz follows close behind as they walk down the wall to a vent.

“You can’t be serious,” Punz whispers.

George wishes he was joking.

Saying nothing, he simply leans down and unscrews the vent, being careful to keep the metal from clanging.

They stare at the tight space, “Can you even fit in that?”

“I have too,”

Punz is right though, this will be a very tight fit. Especially because he was essentially just bones when he escaped the first time.

Not willing to put it off any longer, George lowers himself as close to the ground as he can get and starts shimminging into the vent. He forces his shoulders through but gets caught at the hips.

“Would shifting into your human form be easier?”

“Punz. Shut up,”

George almost feels bad but before he can apologize he gets pitched downward. It takes all of his self control not to yelp as his front legs catch his fall, leaving him vertical in the vent.

“Oh my god,” he mutters.

The edge scrapes along his spine as he pulls himself forward. He grits his teeth as his hind legs finally slide down the narrow drop.

Crawling forward, he winds through the endless tunnels. George forces himself to keep breathing, trying to ignore the heat creeping under his fur and the pounding starting in his head. Too quickly the space becomes far to tight as he gasps slightly. This is about as stressful as he imagined it would be but being here is another layer of awful.

Finally, he sees the familiar darkness up ahead and the promise of a long drop. This is what gets him to Winnow. He’s almost there.

George glances down the vent and feels his heart jump into his throat. This is going to suck.

3. 2. 1. George throws himself forward, falling for a few seconds before landing painfully on his shoulder. There’s definitely a better way to do that, too bad he doesn’t have the time to figure it out.

He takes a second to shake out the pain, the adrenaline dulling the worst of it but his ribs zing with every movement and his shoulder is already beginning to ache. The sight in front of him quickly numbs it all as he takes a second to stare.

This is it. This is the vent.

Shaking, George presses his ear to the metal. He has to make sure no one else is in the room besides Winnow, is she’s even in there. A few seconds pass with no noise until he hears sniffling. Shit.

“Winnow?” he whispers.

The sniffling stops and he hears a faint shuffling.

“Who are you?” she whispers, her voice hoarse. “Please don’t hurt me,”

George feels tears in his eyes and he starts to unscrew the vent, “It’s okay Winnow, it’s me. It’s George,”

“George? How do I know it’s you?” she asks, so quiet he can barely hear.

He has to stop unscrewing for a second to collect himself, “Do you remember the summer before I turned 14 we used to play manhunt in the woods? Just us two? And we would be out for hours on end and we would see how close we could get to getting away with it?”

He hears footsteps over to the vent just as he manages to detach it. He feels it’s weight get lifted out of his hands and he drops into the room, trying not to look around as memories of his years here flood his mind. Instead, he glances over at Winnow who is staring at him in shock. The state of her almost send him into a panic. Her hair is longer than when he last saw her and tangled into a rat’s nest around her head. There’s dark bruising around her eye and neck, no doubt just a small amount of the abuse she’s faced. She seems unaffected though as she throws herself at him.

“You’re here! I can’t believe it!” she yelps, squeezing him around the middle.

His ribs scream in protest but he refuses to flinch, letting Winnow dig her fingers into his fur for however long she needs.

Finally, she lets go, “I- I just can’t believe it! I thought I’d never see you again!”

“Well I’m here, and I’m getting you out,”

Winnow widens her eyes, “We’re actually leaving?”

“Yes, c’mon. I won’t let them hurt you anymore, okay? There’s this great pack East of here and everyone is amazing. You’ll love it, I promise,”

She looks uncertain, glancing between George and the vent. He knows better to talk, giving her a second to process before she meets his eyes and nods. George gestures for her to go first through the vent.

“Should I shift?”

“Can you shift?”

“Barely,”

George gives her a sad smile and nods, “Do it,”

It takes a bit of effort but soon, a small, brown wolf is standing in front of him. With some difficultly, Winnow hops up into the vent but not without wincing. It reminds George all too well of his escape. He could barely shift to get out of the main house and the adrenaline rush plus Chant’s help was the only thing that got him to the woods. Aside from sheer will.

George follows her into the vent, not bothering to cover his tracks as by the time they realize she’s not here, hopefully they’ll be long gone.

They don’t talk aside from George whispering directions to Winnow, both of them distracted by pain and too focused on getting out successfully to reconnect. There’ll be plenty of time for that once they’re safely back in Faolan with the protection of a pack. It takes awhile to get back out mostly due to him having to boost Winnow up the steeper sections and then drag himself up. He guesses he’s been in the house for about 20 minutes, a bit longer than what he estimated but there’s nothing he can do about it now. Finally, George feels a slight breeze ruffle his fur as Winnow inhales sharply.

“Wow, I forgot what fresh air feels like,” she mutters as she climbs through the vent onto the roof. George follows close behind, taking a second to stretch out at much as he can. He almosts congratulates himself on getting them out when Punz comes rushing around the corner. Winnow yelps and leaps behind George.

“Punz!” he hisses, feeling Winnow shake beside him.

“Sorry,” he says, sending a curious glance at her before turning back to him, “We have to go, now,”

“What is it?”

“They put the fires out and the guards are returning to patrol. If we don’t leave right now I don’t know if we’ll make it past,”

George feels his stomach drop as he glances at Winnow, who’s staring at him with wide eyes.

“Let’s go then,”

Punz takes off, George following close behind but slowing his pace so Winnow can keep up. Too soon, Punz is almost 20 feet ahead of them.

“Punz! Punz wait!” he tries to shout but fear keeps his voice quiet and Punz barges on, blindly assuming they are behind him.

“George,” Winnow whimpers.

“It’s okay, just keep going,”

George resists the urge to take off as they leap from roof to roof. He can tell Winnow is hurting but she refuses to complain. Soon the edge of the inner village comes into view.

“Almost there, just keep going,” he murmurs. Winnow’s breathing is labored beside him. He doesn’t have the heart to tell her that they still have a long way out of the outer woods.

Finally they get to the edge of the city. George helps Winnow of the roof when they look at eachother in terror. Footsteps.

“Down, get down,” he hisses, dragging Winnow into the brush with him.

George feels her press as close to him as humanly possible and quickly decides that if they are spotted, he’s fighting his way out. No matter what.

The footsteps grow closer, bringing voices with them.

“If I have to put out one more fire I’m ending it right here,”

“Relax, they’re not that bad,”

The voices fall silent for a few seconds before, “Do you smell that?”

Oh shit.

“Who’s there?” one voice growls. He forgot they can smell Winnow.

Moving quickly, George quietly tucks himself around Winnow as much as he can. He can’t block her scent fully but maybe just enough.

“C’mon man, that’s really faint. It’s probably just the wind carrying leftover scent,”

“I don’t know, I think we should do a loop just to make sure,”

“Okay fine, whatever you say,”

The footsteps fade and George springs upward, motioning for Winnow to follow. They take off into the woods, taking extra caution not to be heard.

“No! It got stronger. C’mon, this way!” George hears distantly. Fuck, they’re on their trail.

“Winnow, cover yourself in mud the first chance you get and keep running West. Don’t stop, okay?” he pants.

“George-”

“No, I’ll lead them away. I promise I’ll catch up to you, just go,”

It takes a second but George watches as Winnow picks up her pace and disappears into the night. Alright, this is just like the Moon Games. Except he’s actually dead if he’s caught. George takes a risk and stops running. He’s at a real disadvantage since he can’t sense the alpha’s but they also can’t sense him.

A voice to the left of him makes him jump, “I’ve got it! Follow me,”

Two wolves rush by him, too focused to notice his presence. Perfect. George falls into line behind them, slowly gaining speed until he can reach out and close his jaws around the first alpha’s back leg. The large, black wolf goes sprawling forward, effectively tripping up his counterpart. That’s all he needed.

George turns to run away when yellow eyes meet his and his breath stops, “George?”

He didn’t realize the wolf he was chasing was Micheal, one of his friends before he presented.

He doesn’t say anything, taking off into the woods going North. Shit shit shit. Panic threatens to overtake him as his mind spins. He was recognized. He was recognized. They’re going to tell Shaye and he’ll be hunted. Just run.

George doesn’t stop until he knows they didn’t follow and his injuries are practically screaming. He’s well away from Ragnar but his detour means a long walk back to Faolan. This’ll be fun.

He starts his trek, desperately hoping Winnow ran into the group and they are safely on their way home.

Notes:

hey, long time no see ;)

I definitely messed up the directions a few times, kindly ignore it and I will fix it eventually <3

anyway, enjoy!

p.s. I don't know what's up with formatting, everything looks good on my end and then I hit post and it goes to shit

Notes:

Thank you for reading Where the Woods End :)