C2 Two

Upon waking up the next morning, I find myself commencing the routine once more. However, I've granted the warriors a morning respite from their training.

Last night, Storm and I engaged in a heated argument over this decision. It's quite the peculiar experience, having a disagreement with your own wolf inside your head. Ultimately, Storm prevailed, and the warriors are now enjoying a training-free morning. Although, I still believe they should have engaged in some form of training.

So, for now, I'm in my office, submerged in a sea of paperwork. I now understand why my dad was always here early. The workload seems never-ending, as soon as I finish one document, ten more appear in its place. I've stopped refreshing my email until I've tackled most of the messages from the previous day.

Fortunately, I've transitioned most of my parents' paper-based operations to digital. Now, I simply affix a digital signature stamp to emails I approve. It's a more efficient system than depleting forests, a practice I appreciate when I go for my runs. It was high time to abandon the dinosaur age and embrace technology.

Abbs and I have taken precautions; everything is encrypted and backed up on multiple devices hidden throughout the Alpha floor. Even though my parents have a cottage they prefer to stay in when they're home, I now officially have this floor to myself.

Alastair remains nearby, loyal as ever. Even after my parents stepped down, he pledged himself to me. Hailey, on the other hand, tends to the pack children at the schools, so Alastair drops by daily.

I'm about halfway through the emails when Abbs enters.

"I have more transfer applications for us to review," she says, placing the tablet on the desk.

"I've sorted them based on where they would fit in the pack, pending your approval," Abbs informs me.

I nod. "Just leave it on the desk. I want to finish this last email. The new pack doctor sent a list of items needed for the medical wing, so I'll get that approved," I tell her as I scan the document.

The list contains numerous medical terms I'm unfamiliar with, but I don't question it. I want the hospital to be well-stocked, and if these are the items deemed necessary, so be it. I add my digital signature stamp and move on.

Turning to the tablet, I see Abbs has brought her chair over, and we begin sifting through the applications. I rarely decline new members, thanks to Storm's assistance in identifying those who are genuinely committed from those who are wasting my time. It's a skill I take pride in, much like my mom.

Storm and I have control over all elements, not just fire like my mom. I'm technically considered uncharted territory since I was the firstborn after my mom completed the legend. In contrast, Andrew and Adam are regular wolves, like my dad. Even though they're twins, I've heard they were easier to handle as kids than I was.

I didn't discover my abilities at a young age and had an early shift at the tender age of five. So, whenever I threw a tantrum, anything could happen. Ever wanted snow in July? I can make that happen, or so I've heard.

"Well, I'll gather these people in the next few days to see if they're a good fit," Abbs says, snapping me out of my thoughts.

"Sounds good, just make sure it's at least the day after tomorrow," I tell her.

We wrap up the paperwork, and as expected, my email refresh results in over a hundred new messages. I'd probably pull my hair out if it weren't for Andrew managing the treasury and helping with some of the workload.

I shake my head at the computer, lock it, and shut it down for the day. Anything truly important will come through my phone or the mind link.

I head to my room and open the closet. I've kept the butterfly theme my mom wanted when I was a baby. It's a small part of myself I've held onto, and even at my age, I still appreciate the blue and black butterflies. They're not childlike; they look quite realistic.

I had the Alpha suite remodeled, with one wall resembling a forest, complete with butterflies fluttering about. It's my little sanctuary since nails are not an option for me. They never stay on or painted for more than a few hours.

If I can't be out in the forest for a run, I've recreated it here in my room—a place of comfort and serenity.

I change out of my casual attire into the formal wear I've selected for the bonfire, which consists of dark jeans and a nice top. At my vanity, I apply minimal makeup, preferring a more natural look. My long, dark hair looks good today after a wash, so I leave it down for the evening.

I head out to the field, where many members have already gathered, and the food is set out on the tables. I walk up to the woodpile and clear my throat to capture everyone's attention.

"Gray River, I want to thank you all for joining us tonight. We have some important discussions ahead, especially for those of you coming of age and deciding where you'll fit within our pack. I hope you all enjoy the evening, with delicious food and great company." With a brief opening speech, I focus on the woodpile and ignite it, the flames springing to life.