𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐓𝐓𝐘 𝐃𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐋, Descendants 3 ✓

Chapter 7

Lyra wakes up, her eyelids fluttering as her vivid blue-brown eyes slowly open. The soft morning light filters through the tiny windows of the enchanting fairy cottage, casting a warm glow on the room. As her vision adjusts, Lyra takes in the familiar surroundings, realizing that she is still nestled within the cozy confines of the cottage.

What happened? she thought, her mind racing, and she couldn't help but rub her hands along her arms in disbelief. Startled, she realized she was a human now, though she distinctly remembered being a wolf the last time she checked. But I wasn't meant to be a human! she exclaimed internally, her frustration causing her to groan audibly. She shook her head, trying to gather her thoughts amidst the confusion. "Whatever, I'm going to find my friends now," she resolved, determination filling her voice.

Standing up, she ran her fingers through her hair, pushing it back behind her ears, a feeble attempt to regain composure. Stepping out of the enchanting fairy cottage, she couldn't ignore the tingling sensation in her nose, her human senses surprisingly heightened. She shivered as the cool air caressed her skin, reminding her of her vulnerability in this unfamiliar form. It wasn't just Mal and the others who were present now; the sea three had joined them as well, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.

Lyra grits her teeth, fueled by determination, and sprints through the dense forest, her heart pounding in her chest. It doesn't take long before she stumbles upon her beloved pack, or at least a part of them. There she sees Jay, Gil, and Harry, accompanied by Carlos, the wise and aging mutt. Carlos notices her presence and joyfully dashes towards her, barking with excitement. A smile breaks across her face as she scoops him up, unable to contain her laughter as he showers her cheek with slobbery licks.

However, when Lyra looks up, her smile falters, and a wave of vulnerability washes over her. All four pairs of eyes are fixed on her, scrutinizing her every move. In that moment, she starts to feel a pang of self-consciousness, as if she's suddenly exposed, her innermost thoughts laid bare before her pack.

"Lyra," Carlos breathes, his eyes widening with recognition. Lyra nods slowly, gently setting down Dude, who whimpers softly as he continues to gaze up at the wolf girl. As if drawn to her, the boys begin to close in on her, their intentions clear. The first one to envelope her in a hug is Gil, his strong arms wrapping around her tightly, causing her to let out a surprised squeak.

"G-Gil!" she snarks, her voice laced with a mixture of amusement and affection. The dim-witted pirate grins, burying his face into her neck. "I've missed you," he mumbles, his words muffled against her skin. Lyra relaxes in his embrace, patting his shoulders gently, signaling him to set her down.

"I've missed you guys too, and don't worry, I'm completely fine. Audrey didn't hurt me," she reassures them, aware that her words have caught Harry and Gil off guard. The tension in the air is palpable as Harry turns to Jay and Carlos, a growl rumbling in his throat. "Why didn't you tell us that our love was captured by that Audrey chick?" Jay lifts his chin defiantly, but Lyra steps over to harry, placing a comforting hand on his arm and making him look at her.

"They didn't because they didn't want you guys to go into a panic. I know how much you guys would've wanted to bring me back," she says, her voice filled with understanding. Harry lets out a heavy sigh, then pulls her into a tight hug, burying his nose into her neck, mirroring Gil's earlier gesture.

You lean back slightly, pressing your forehead against Harry's, seeking comfort and connection. "Is Uma here anywhere?" you inquire, your voice filled with anticipation. Harry nods, a smile playing on his lips as he nuzzles his nose against yours. "Aye, lass, she's wi' the lasses," " he responds, confirming your hopes.

You step back from Harry, beckoning the boys to follow you. They do so willingly, their curiosity piqued. As you lead them, you come across a bush adorned with ripe, red berries. Gil walks over, plucking one of the berries and popping it into his mouth. "Hmm, what is this?" he asks, his voice filled with genuine curiosity. You giggle softly, finding his innocence endearing. "They're called bierres, and yes, they're free for the taking," you explain, patting his shoulder affectionately as you walk past him.

Jay joins you, stepping up to Gil's side, and together, the three of you continue your journey. Your senses remain alert, and though Dude is somewhere else, likely seated nearby, your ears remain attentive to any sound or sign of danger.

"Hey, we should play this icebreaker," Gil suddenly suggests, catching your attention. You turn to face him, tilting your head slightly. "Go on," you encourage him with a smile.

Gil grins and turns to Jay. "I like how you can wing it in any situation and be adaptable," he says, praising Jay's improvisational skills. Jay simply shrugs, nonchalantly popping a berry into his mouth. "And I like how you're always so charismatic and kind," he adds, his words genuine. You chuckle at their camaraderie and lean against Jay, feeling the warmth of his presence.

Harry joins the group, grumbling good-naturedly. "You guys are killing me," he remarks, but he can't resist picking a berry from the bush and popping it into his mouth, balancing it on the tip of his hook. As the taste blooms on his tongue, a wide grin spreads across his face. You shake your head in amusement.

"Lyra, are you writing us?" Gil asks, curious. You look at him and nod. "Sure, I like how you guys," you nod towards Gil and Harry, "are so loyal. I mean, the rest of my pack is loyal too, but to be pirates, you two are really loyal." Gil smiles proudly, and Harry dips his head, a soft blush covering his pale cheeks, appreciating the recognition of his loyalty.

Hey, then Harry speaks up, his voice filled with sincerity. "And I like you, Lyra. You're always there for us, and I love how comfortable you are around us," he says, leaning in to kiss your cheek. You blush, feeling a mixture of embarrassment and affection, and playfully swat his arm. "Oh, hush it," you tease, but deep down, you know that his words hold truth.

As a wolf, your instinctual bond with your pack runs deep, and you would indeed do anything for this group of friends. A wolf will face danger and even sacrifice its own life for the sake of its pack. The realization fills you with a sense of loyalty and protective love for your chosen family.