Old Rival (Chapter 12)

                                    

                                          
As Anna and I continued her training, I sudden, felt vibrations heading straight toward the training grounds. The usual sounds of the pack going about their day were replaced by an unsettling stillness. My instincts went on high alert.
"Stay close to me," I said, my voice low and urgent. She nodded, her eyes wide with fear.
Just then, a series of growls and snarls erupted from the edge of the forest. Rogues. They burst into the clearing, their eyes wild and their intentions clear. Both packs members quickly formed a defensive line, but the rogues were relentless.
"Anna, run!" I ordered, pushing her towards the direction of Ariel's office. She hesitated for a moment, then took off, her small figure darting around the chaos heading toward the clearing.
I turned to face the oncoming threat, me and Kai's heart pounding. The rogues were fierce, but I fought with everything I had, determined to protect the pack. The battle was intense, and I could feel my strength starting to wane as the fight dragged on.
In the midst of the chaos, I saw a rogue break through the line, heading straight for Anna who had almost gotten away. Without thinking, I took off and threw myself in its path, taking the full brunt of its attack. Pain shot through my side as its claws raked across my skin, but I managed to fend it off, sending it sprawling to the ground. Then tearing its head clean off.
"Adam!" Anna's voice was filled with fear as she saw me stagger. I forced a smile, trying to reassure her.
"I'm okay, Anna. Just stay back and get down," I said, my voice strained.
The packs members rallied, finally driving the rogues back into the forest. As the last rogue disappeared, I collapsed to my knees, the pain in my side overwhelming. Anna ran to me, her eyes filled with tears.
"Adam, you're hurt!" she cried, her small hands trying to help me up.
"I'm fine, Anna, just need a sec" I said, though my voice was weak. "Just a scratch my ASS you were sloppy." Kai said
At that moment, Ariel appeared, her eyes wide with concern as she took in the scene. She rushed to Anna, checking her over quickly before turning her attention to me. "Adam, thank you for protecting her," she said, her voice filled with gratitude.
I nodded, trying to stay upright. "Just doing my job, Alpha."
Before I could say more, Taylor arrived, his expression a mix of worry and determination. "Let's get you back to your room,"
"I'm fine. What about your pack?"
"Everyone is fine minor injuries and 3 sever and they are already with a healer. So Suck it up Muscles and let me help you."
Anna let out a little giggle
"Ok"
Helping me to my feet. I leaned heavily on him, grateful for the support.
As we made our way back, I glanced around, my eyes searching for Noah. I didn't know why I cared, but I needed to know he was okay. I spotted him across the field, directing the pack members and ensuring the area was secure. Relief washed over me, though I quickly looked away, not wanting to dwell on the feeling or to be caught looking.
Once we reached my room, Taylor helped me sit down and began to patch up my wounds. "You really took a beating out there," he said, his tone light but his eyes serious.
I winced as he cleaned the cuts. "It was worth it to keep Anna safe."
Taylor nodded, his hands gentle but efficient. "You did good, Adam. The pack owes you."