Training Ground

The fresh morning air carried a slight chill, but the warriors of the Grey Shadow Pack were already gathered at the vast training ground, stretching and preparing for the rigorous exercises ahead.

The field was impressive, a testament to the pack's strength and discipline. It was divided into sections: a training facility stocked with wooden dummies, sandbags, and basic weight stones for strength exercises, alongside an open field for physical drills in both human and wolf form. Obstacle courses tested endurance, speed tracks honed agility, and chase drills mimicked real-life hunting scenarios.

At exactly 5:30 AM, Alpha Richard, who had arrived before the warriors began trickling in, stepped forward. His rough voice cut through the morning stillness as his piercing gaze swept across the field.

"Today, we have guests joining our morning training," he announced, a subtle smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Alpha Lucas Rathord and his warriors will be sparring alongside us. Let's give them a warm welcome."

The warriors responded with a unified growl of acknowledgment.

Alpha Lucas gave a curt nod, his sharp gaze sweeping over the crowd. Beside him, Sebastian rolled his shoulders in anticipation, his muscles coiled, ready for the morning grind.

Training began with warm-ups, stretches to loosen their muscles, followed by a hundred push-ups. Warriors gritted their teeth, sweat forming on their brows as they moved in perfect synchronization.

Next came the sprint drills. Teams raced across the open field, weaving through wooden posts and leaping over logs. Sebastian and Williams dominated, their steps light and precise as they maneuvered through obstacles.

The agility course followed; scaling stacked crates, balancing across narrow beams, dodging swinging sandbags meant to test reflexes. Gerald was a natural, clearing each challenge with practiced ease.

By the time strength trials began, the warriors were fully engaged. They carried logs and rolled boulders across the field, grappled for endurance, and practiced coordination in formation drills with weighted sacks strapped to their backs. Calvin impressed many, hoisting a massive stone above his head before slamming it onto the ground, muscles flexing under the effort.

Finally, the duels commenced.

Alpha Richard squared off against Alpha Lucas. Their movements were swift yet measured, testing reflexes and strength. Their blows echoed through the training ground, Richard landed a sharp jab, but Lucas countered with a powerful kick, sending him skidding back a few paces.

Nearby, Sebastian and Williams sparred, strikes sharp and calculated. Sebastian, known for his speed, danced around Williams' heavy-handed attacks, countering with swift punches that kept his friend on guard.

Meanwhile, Fred, the Blood Moon's Beta, a towering figure with hooded sapphire eyes and an unreadable expression, engaged in a brutal match against Beta Gerald, their strengths nearly equal. Not far off, Joel and Calvin sparred, focusing on technique rather than brute force.

After two hours of relentless training, Alpha Richard called for a wrap-up.

"Well done, everyone," he said, breathing heavily but satisfied. "You're dismissed. Get cleaned up before breakfast."

Warriors dispersed; some groaning from exhaustion, others laughing over their matches. The Blood Moon warriors had held their own, earning nods of respect from the Grey Shadow Pack.

As they made their way back, Sebastian clapped Williams on the back.

"Still slow as ever," he teased.

Williams scoffed. "You got lucky."

Lucas chuckled, shaking his head at their banter. "Let's go. I need food before I pass out."

They headed toward the packhouse, invigorated and ready for the day ahead.

The grand dining hall buzzed with activity. The rich aroma of freshly baked bread, sizzling meat, and brewed herbal tea filled the air.

On today's menu: roasted venison with garlic butter, scrambled eggs, honey oat bread, assorted fruits, and a hearty serving of cinnamon-infused porridge with nuts. Beverages ranged from strong black coffee and spiced tea to fresh berry juice.

Matilda moved swiftly among the servers, cautious yet efficient as the hall filled up. More wolves streamed in; warriors, pack members, and guests alike. Lively chatter and the clinking of cutlery created a warm, communal atmosphere.

At the head table, Alpha Richard sipped his tea before leaning back.

"You wouldn't believe the profit I made from my latest business deal," he said. "I secured a contract to supply high-quality wolf-hide leather to the royal armory. Demand for durable, enchanted battle gear is soaring, and since our pack has the best tanners and enchanters, the deal was practically handed to me on a silver platter."

Alpha Lucas raised an intrigued brow. "A royal contract? That's impressive. What's the projected profit margin?"

"Nearly twenty percent above what I expected. The King's advisors barely negotiated, seems they're desperate for quality materials." Richard smirked. "This is just the first batch. If we meet their standards, it could turn into a long-term partnership."

Lucas stroked his chin thoughtfully. "That does sound rewarding. I've been looking to expand my pack's trade. Perhaps I could invest in this venture?"

Richard nodded. "That's exactly what I was going to propose. We could form a joint partnership, increase production, and dominate the market."

Lucas grinned. "Now that's an opportunity I can't pass up. Let's discuss the details properly."

Their conversation piqued the interest of warriors nearby, but soon, the Alphas decided to take the discussion to Alpha Richard's study, where all major pack business was handled.

With breakfast concluded, the two leaders excused themselves, heading toward the private wing of the packhouse, ready to seal yet another profitable deal.