The next morning, I busied myself by doing my duties as the Gamma in the training ground. I was greeted by the sound of steel clashing, and warriors sparring filled the air while others were preparing for the training by rock climbing. Then, I helped to adjust the strap of the harness of one of my fellow pack warriors and taught them how to do it better.
Since I was still on my vacation and couldn't decide what I was going to do for the next few days, I had decided to help with the training. Not only that, but this was to distract me.
It was hard to forget about what I witnessed with Redmund and Lilith. Until now, I still felt the bitterness gnawing inside me, including how I slept with Commander Lucretius.
In my peripheral vision, Alpha Derrick stood near the training grounds, his arms folded as he observed the warriors' progress. His presence was calm yet commanding. He was one of the people I respected the most.
If it weren't for him approving some of the women here to join the royal military, I wouldn't be in this position. He also admired Commander Rachelle Simon for her bravery, which led him to finally promote a few of the women to be Gammas as well.
When I approached him, he turned to me, his sharp eyes softening with recognition. "Greetings, Alpha," I greeted with a bow.
"Euphyllia." He nodded, acknowledging me.
"What brings you here, Alpha?" I asked politely. As far as I know, he was handling some business in town with our Beta.
Not to judge why he came here to the training ground, but I had a feeling that he wouldn't come here for a reason. I noticed that Beta Rocco wasn't with him. Perhaps, he had an errand to do that made Alpha come here.
He studied me for a moment before speaking. "Two matters. First, patrols found fresh rogue tracks near the eastern ridge. I'd like your assessment. You've always had a keen eye for these things."
I straightened, feeling honored at what he said. "I'll look into it immediately. If they're close, we can't risk them circling back."
I knew that I was feeling down lately, but with Alpha Derrick asking for insight, I felt energized and was quick to make a response. Being a tactical keeper was such a good investment.
Alpha Derrick nodded, satisfied with my answer, but then his expression changed. This time, it looked heavier and cautious. "The second matter is... less simple." He fished out of his breast pocket and pulled out a sealed letter. When he bestowed it on me, my breath caught in my throat upon seeing the stamped with the crimson insignia of the royal military. "This arrived by messenger hawk this morning. It's addressed to you."
Staring at it, my heart was pounding so fast. I was in the middle of my vacation leave, and the fact that I was receiving a letter from the royal military, could this mean that something had happened?
I paused, not wanting to jump to a conclusion, touching the parchment before breaking the seal quickly.
'To all enlisted soldiers under the Royal Military Order:
You are hereby summoned back to the capital at once. Your leave is suspended. Attendance is mandatory.'
My throat tightened. I knew it. A sudden summon meant only one thing... There could be a war. Or perhaps, worse.
Was the issue about the rogue faction that had been causing these past few months as to why we were summoned back?
I folded the letter slowly, trying my best to keep my composure as I met Alpha Derrick's gaze.
I coerced a smile. "I am being summoned back to the royal military as soon as possible, Alpha," I told him the truth. "I might have to leave tomorrow."
With this kind of summoning letter, leaving tomorrow was the best solution.
He nodded. "I understand. And I always support the path you chose, Euphyllia," he said, placing a hand on my shoulder. "Go and make our pack proud."
My chest tightened at his words. I could also feel my eyes getting misty. Alpha Derrick was always supportive of women pursuing different paths, not just staying at home and doing chores. Because he also supported our Luna, Olivia, who had established her own business. He wasn't feeling ashamed about it. That was why my pack members and I love our beloved Alpha and Luna of the Starry Shadows Pack.


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