Chapter 16: A howl in the night

Weeks went by, eventually becoming months. I spent my time acting as an advisor, helping Shuri in her lab. More like annoying her. Also became a some sorta life coach for T'Challa.

But now, it was time I went out of this palace and explored a bit.I informed King T'Challa of my intentions, and he nodded, understanding the need for some down time and reflection.

Stepping out of the palace, I felt the cool evening breeze against my skin. The setting sun cast a golden hue over the landscape, and I made my way towards the dense woods that bordered the capital.

As I walked, the sounds of the city gradually faded, replaced by the serene whispers of nature.

The forest welcomed me like an old friend. Tall trees stretched their branches towards the sky, and the underbrush rustled with the movements of hidden creatures.

I took a deep breath, savouring the earthy scent of the woods. It was in places like these that I felt most connected to the world around me.

Finding a secluded spot, I paused and closed my eyes, focusing on the familiar warmth that spread through my chest. With a deep exhale, I let go, allowing the transformation to take over.

My body elongated and shifted, muscles rippling and bones reforming. Within moments, I stood on four powerful legs, my fur gleaming white in the fading light.

I had become a great white celestial wolf, a form that granted me both strength(strength I already had) and a profound connection to the natural world. This was one of my various forms I could take on but definitely my favourite.

[Image here]

I shook out my fur, feeling the energy coursing through me, and took off into the forest. The wind rushed past me as I ran, the ground a blur beneath my paws. In this form, I felt free. Constantly keeping my power sealed in my human form was taxing, even for me.

The forest came alive around me. I could hear the heartbeat of every living thing, the rustle of leaves, and the distant call of a bird. The moon began to rise, its silver light filtering through the canopy and casting an ethereal glow on the forest floor.

I slowed my pace, padding quietly through the trees, savouring the peace that enveloped me.

As I wandered, I stumbled upon a small clearing, bathed in moonlight. I paused, gazing up at the sky, and felt a deep sense of calm wash over me. Here, in the heart of Wakanda's forests, I was reminded of the balance and harmony that existed in the world. It was a stark contrast to the conflict and tension I had left behind in the palace.

Suddenly, a movement caught my eye. A deer emerged from the underbrush, its eyes wide with curiosity. It regarded me for a moment, and then, sensing no threat, it began to graze.

I watched it silently, marvelling at the simple beauty of the scene. In moments like these, I felt a profound connection to the universe, a reminder of my place in the grand tapestry of life.

After a while, I decided it was time to return. The peace I had found in the forest had replenished my spirit, and I felt ready to face the challenges that awaited me back at the palace. With a deep breath, I willed the transformation to reverse.

My body shifted and reformed, and soon I stood once again on two legs, feeling the cool night air against my skin.

As I made my way back through the forest, a faint rustling caught my attention. Pausing, I listened carefully and picked up the unmistakable sounds of human voices—low, gruff, and filled with malicious intent.

Curious, I moved silently towards the source of the noise. Through the thick underbrush, I saw a group of men huddled around a small cage. I bared my teeth when I realized what was inside: a small, injured black panther pup.

Its fur was matted with dirt, and it whimpered softly, trying to make itself as small as possible.

Poachers. The realization sent a surge of anger through me. Wakanda's forests were sacred, and its wildlife was protected fiercely. These men were not only trespassing but also causing harm to a creature that was symbolic to this nation.

Without hesitation, I allowed the transformation to take over once more. My body elongated and shifted, muscles rippling and bones reforming. Within moments, I stood in my wolf form once again. I stepped out from the shadows, my presence immediately commanding attention.

The poachers froze, their eyes wide with fear as they took in my form. One of them muttered something under his breath, but before they could react further, I let out a deep, menacing growl.

They scrambled backward, dropping their weapons and abandoning the cage in their haste to escape. I chased them a short distance, ensuring they were truly gone before returning to the pup. I made sure to mark them for later.

Carefully, I approached the small panther. It looked up at me with wide, frightened eyes, but I could see a spark of hope there as well. I used my teeth to gently lift the latch on the cage and nudged the door open with my nose.

The pup hesitated for a moment, then slowly limped out.

I lay down beside it, lowering my massive head to its level and letting out a soft whine of reassurance. The pup sniffed at me cautiously, then nuzzled into my fur, seeming to understand that I meant no harm. It was hurt but not beyond help.

Gently, I picked up the pup by the scruff of its neck, careful not to cause it any more pain. With the panther secure, I started making my way back to the palace, moving swiftly but smoothly to avoid jostling it too much.

As I approached the palace gates, the guards' eyes widened at the sight of a white white wolf carrying a black panther pup. I relayed my human form to their minds to ease their worries.

They quickly opened the gates, and I headed straight to the royal medical wing, where I knew the pup would receive the care it needed.

Once inside, I carefully set the pup down on a soft blanket. The palace's healers, skilled in both human and animal care, immediately began tending to its wounds.

I watched closely, my form shifting back to my human self as I observed their work. The pup looked at me with grateful eyes, and I knew it was in good hands.

King T'Challa soon arrived, having heard of the commotion. He took in the scene with a mix of surprise and admiration. "Darius, it seems your excursion into the forest was more eventful than expected."

I nodded, a small smile playing on my lips. "Indeed, Your Majesty. I encountered poachers and managed to rescue this young one from their grasp. It seems the forest still holds many surprises."

T'Challa knelt beside the pup, gently stroking its fur. "You have done a great service today, my friend. This pup is a symbol of our nation, and saving it from harm is a noble act."

 "It was the least I could do. I despise poachers more than most criminals"

The healers continued their work, and the pup soon began to relax, its wounds cleaned and bandaged. I added my magic as a final touch, something I should have done earlier.

[A/N When I refer to Darius' magic just remember that he is a cosmic being so his magic is just his will. What he wants happens. No magical circles, chants or the like. I will however be using a snap as the activation for his power, so you know when he does do something]

[A few moments later]

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over Wakanda, I carried the small pup to the gardens. The air was filled with the fragrance of blooming flowers and the gentle hum of evening insects.

The pup, now more alert and curious, looked around with wide, inquisitive eyes.

I set the pup down gently on the soft grass and watched as it took tentative steps, sniffing at the vibrant flowers and pawing at the leaves. Its playful nature began to emerge, and it was heartening to see the pup gaining strength and confidence.

"Little one," I murmured, crouching down to its level, "you need a name that befits your courage and the journey you have begun."

The pup looked up at me, its dark eyes shining with trust and curiosity. I thought back to the moments we had shared since its rescue—the fear and pain it had endured, the bravery it had shown, and the bond that was already forming between us.

"Zuri," I said softly, the name rolling off my tongue with a sense of rightness. "It means 'beautiful' in Swahili, and you, my friend, are a symbol of beauty and resilience."

Zuri seemed to respond to the name, nuzzling against my hand and letting out a soft purr. I chuckled, feeling a warmth in my chest that was unfamiliar but welcome. This pup had already found a place in my heart.

As we spent time in the garden, I played with Zuri, tossing a small ball of yarn I had found. The pup chased after it with surprising agility, its tiny paws batting at the ball with determination.

Laughter bubbled up within me—a sound I hadn't heard from myself in quite some time. It was as if Zuri's presence was a balm to my soul, reminding me of the simple joys of life.

Soon, we were joined by Shuri, who had heard about the pup and was eager to meet it. She approached with a smile, her eyes lighting up at the sight of the playful panther. "Darius, is this the little one you rescued?"

"Indeed, it is," I replied, watching as Zuri bounded over to Shuri, intrigued by this new friend. "I've named her Zuri."

Shuri knelt down and gently petted Zuri, who purred happily in response. "Zuri is a perfect name. She's going to be a wonderful addition to our family."

We spent the evening together, talking and laughing as we watched Zuri explore her new surroundings. The pup's energy and joy were infectious, and for a few precious hours, the weight of our responsibilities seemed to lift.

As night fell and the stars began to twinkle in the sky, I carried a sleepy Zuri back to the palace. She nestled into my arms, her tiny body warm and content.

=========================================================

[There~~~ Don't expect 2 chapters in one day ever again, its tough]