The Crimes of Silverian Wolves

Astrid

Fear of returning to my father's house and reliving past suffering kept me from going home. I am staying for three days, but it's enough time to overwhelm myself with my father's pretentious presence. When I was a kid, I struggled to find a place of comfort and peace. My father's obsession with politics drove him insane. All he cared about was how he could build his political dynasty in Silveria. He never treated us as his family, but his political pawns he could use anytime. When we resisted against his will, he would imprison and starve us until we gave up. That cycle continued until Uncle Dominic intervened and broke the cycle of abuse. My hands clenched my lap as I assured myself. "It's just three days."

"Miss Astrid, would you like us to take a stop for a bathroom break?" My train of thoughts halted when Mr. Benjamin, our driver, asked. The long road of Silveria, which would take us an hour of drive stretched before my sight.

"I'm fine, sir, but if you wish to take a break, it would be okay," I replied.

"Alright, miss. I'll be quick."

My sight followed him to the small convenience store beside a gas station until a swarm of people seemed to engulf him as they paraded down the street. They carried colorful banners above their heads. Pictures of politicians, my father included, were painted in mockery. I lowered the tinted glass window and heard their sharp voices screaming for peace and justice. It must be a new issue for the town because when I left two years ago, they were advocating about taxes.

"We demand justice, not fantasy!" one of them yelled.

"Justice and peace!"

One activist noticed my direction. He spoke words to the person beside him as he pointed at me. In a blink, the swarm of people advanced towards our vehicle, glaring and grunting under their breath. Fortunately, Mr. Benjamin arrived on time and started the engine before they could reach us.

"What's that all about?" People would usually rally during holidays like independence day or labor day. Yet, August 8th was not among them, it's a bright sunny day on a Wednesday.

"You haven't heard the news?" He glanced at the rearview.

My brows twitched. I haven't kept myself updated on what's happening in Silveria since the day I left. Well, technically, I refused to hear from the town. "Series of crimes happened in the town, Miss Astrid. Children and some women were found dead in the woods. Some people speculated that werewolves..."

I scoffed. "Werewolves? Are they serious?" This town has gotten worse. Who would believe that werewolves exist? Or I must say, their criminal investigator wasn't good enough to gather evidence and create a plausible story. No wonder Silverians were tiring themselves in rallies.

"Actually, it was Sir Alvin who offered the idea with some evidence gathered at the crime scenes," Benjamin answered.

I pursed my lips, suppressing a laugh when he mentioned Alvin, my older brother. The favorite child of the family and, fortunately, the successor of father's position in the council. Although I am grateful for his existence because I never desired to be part of their political web, I must admit that he lacked the finesse to decide for the town.

"When did the crimes start?" I asked, interested in the recent issues of the town.

His shoulders shrugged. "A few months ago, I'm not sure. But the crimes started in the woods."

My forehead creased, recalling the rich canopies of the town beyond the river. A perfect place to orchestrate such crimes. "How's mom after all of this news?"