Chapter 131 We're Leaving
Mira gathered her students in the infirmary courtyard just after dawn, her voice carrying with the authority of someone who had already shouldered too much in the past days. She looked at each of them in turn, ensuring they understood the gravity of what lay ahead, and then she began issuing instructions with the precision of a commander preparing for a long campaign.
"Students, we need to pack up everything essential for the journey to the ancient healer's home," she said, her tone firm but encouraging, knowing that they were all exhausted from the recent battles and the emotional toll of seeing their alphas weakened.
"Start with the medical supplies bandages, salves, antidotes, and any herbs that can stabilize wounds or fevers. We can't afford to run out halfway there, especially with Fernando and Alberto in their current states."
One of her younger students, a wide-eyed girl named Elara, nodded vigorously and asked for clarification to make sure she didn't miss anything. "Mira, should we prioritize the pain-relieving potions or the ones for infection? Fernando's paralysis might cause pressure sores if we're on the road too long, and Alberto's condition is so unstable that even a minor infection could tip him over the edge."
Mira considered the question for a moment, weighing the risks they might face on the journey, and then responded with a decisive nod. "Prioritize both, but if we have to choose, pack more for infections because those can spread quickly in travel conditions, and we don't know how long we'll be out there before we reach the healer's sanctuary. Also, including the spirit essence vials they might help keep Alberto's enigma blood from degrading further while he's unconscious. Remember, the ancient healer's home is hidden, and the spirit plague I carry is our key to entry, so we need to be prepared for any delays along the way."
Another student, Rowan, who had been her second-in-command during the recent defenses, chimed in with a practical suggestion that showed his experience in logistics from previous pack emergencies. "What about food and water? We should load non-perishables like dried meats, fruits, and enough water skins for at least a week, just in case the path is longer than expected or we encounter obstacles. And blankets for Fernando, since he can't move to stay warm on his own."
Mira agreed immediately, appreciating Rowan's foresight, and expanded on the idea to ensure everyone was on the same page. "Yes, exactly, Rowan packs those, and adds extra blankets and padding for the truck bed because we'll be transporting Fernando and Alberto lying down to minimize any jolts that could worsen their conditions. Make sure the truck is fueled and the tires are checked; we can't have breakdowns when we're carrying the pack's future. Elara, you and the others help load everything securely so nothing shifts during the drive."
The students moved with coordinated efficiency, discussing among themselves as they gathered the items. "I'll grab the medical kits from the storage," Elara said to Rowan, her voice determined as she headed toward the supply room. "You handle the food and make sure we have enough for Lucia too, since she's coming along and might need extra strength after her curse episode."
Rowan replied while stacking crates. "Got it I'll double the portions for her; she's been through hell, and we need her at full capacity if trouble finds us on the road."
Once the truck was loaded with all their needs, medical supplies stacked neatly, food crates secured, water barrels strapped down, Mira oversaw the careful transfer of Fernando and Alberto. Fernando was lifted gently onto a stretcher by two students, his face a mask of frustration as he felt himself being handled like fragile cargo. "Be careful with him," Mira instructed, her voice soft but insistent. "Keep his head supported, and make sure the blankets are tucked around his legs to prevent any circulation issues."
Alberto, still unconscious and pale, was moved next, his body limp as they placed him beside Fernando in the truck bed. "Strap them both down lightly," Mira added. "We don't want them sliding if the road gets rough, but nothing too tight that it restricts breathing or blood flow."
Darius approached the truck as the preparations finalized, his bandages fresh from the infirmary, though he still moved with a limp from his recent wounds. He leaned over the side of the truck bed, addressing Fernando directly, his tone a mix of reassurance and determination. "Fernando, before you leave, I want to assure you that I'll keep the pack safe while you're gone. The elders might think they have control, but I won't let them run it into the ground. I'll hold the line, make sure no one takes advantage of your absence. You can trust me on that I've always had the pack's back, even when it didn't seem like it."
Fernando, staring blankly ahead with his sightless eyes, turned his head slightly toward Darius's voice, his expression hardening into one of deep resentment. "Trust you? Get away from me, Darius. I don't want to hear your assurances. You come here, talking like you're the savior, it's a slap in the face. Look at me blind, paralyzed, my wolf gone. And you think your words mean anything? Leave. Now."
Darius recoiled slightly, but pressed on, his voice pleading now. "Fernando, I know you're hurting, but I'm your beta and your best friend. Let me step up for once. The pack needs strong leadership, and with you gone, I can—"
Fernando cut him off, his voice rising with bitterness. "Strong? You vanished during the attack. Kael died saving me, Lucia lost control, and where were you? Off on some border check that conveniently kept you safe? No, Darius. I refuse to see you literally or figuratively. Go play politics with the elders. Just stay away from me and Alberto."
Darius hesitated, searching for words to bridge the gap. "I was attacked too Samael came at me like a madman. I barely survived. I'm not the enemy here. Let me prove it by protecting what you built."
Fernando's laugh was hollow and painful. "Prove it? You've had chances. Now it's too late. Mira, get him out of my hearing. I can't stand this."
Mira stepped between them, her gaze firm on Darius. "You've said your piece. Back off. We're leaving."
Darius lingered a moment longer, his expression a mix of hurt and anger. "Fine. But when you come back healed, remember who held the pack together. Good luck, Alpha."
Fernando didn't respond, his face turned away as the truck doors closed.