Victoria
The next morning, I stood in the center of the training yard, surrounded by nearly two dozen female pack members. Their expressions ranged from excited to terrified, but all shared a determination that made my chest swell with pride.
"I’m not going to lie to you," I began, pacing before them. "What I’m about to teach you isn’t easy. It will hurt. You’ll get bruised, exhausted, and frustrated. But when the Blood Moon rises and Alpha Marcus’s forces come, you won’t be helpless victims."
I demonstrated basic defensive moves first, showing them how to break holds and create distance from attackers. My own training with Leo had been brutal but effective, and I drew on those lessons now.
"Your strength isn’t in matching a male wolf’s power," I explained, circling a younger female who was struggling. "It’s in your speed, agility, and unpredictability. Use their strength against them."
I nodded to Tiny, who stepped forward to help demonstrate. Despite his massive size, he moved with surprising grace as we performed the rehearsed sequence.
"Now, pair up and practice," I instructed. "Remember—this isn’t about hurting each other. It’s about learning to protect yourselves."
As the females began working together, I moved through the groups, correcting stances and offering encouragement. To my surprise, many showed natural aptitude once they overcame their initial hesitation.
"You’re a natural teacher," Garrett commented, appearing at my side. He’d volunteered to assist with the training, along with several other warriors.
"They’re quick learners," I deflected, watching with satisfaction as Rosa successfully executed a defensive maneuver against another female.
"You’re giving them something no one has before," Garrett continued, his voice dropping lower. "Power over their own safety. It’s... remarkable to witness."
I glanced at him, noting the admiration in his eyes. "Every wolf deserves that basic right."
"Not every Alpha would agree," he said. "Especially not traditional ones like—"
"Like Leo?" I finished, sensing where he was heading.
Garrett shrugged, but his meaning was clear. "Shadow Pack keeps to older ways in many respects."
But all of this was personally taught to me by Leo.
Before I could respond, I noticed one pair struggling with a particular move. "Excuse me," I said, grateful for the interruption as I moved to help them.
Throughout the afternoon, I continued teaching, introducing modern self-defense techniques alongside traditional wolf combat methods. "Your claws and fangs aren’t your only weapons," I demonstrated, showing them how everyday objects could become defensive tools. "A pen, car keys, even a cell phone—anything can help you survive long enough to escape or for help to arrive."
By sunset, exhaustion lined every face, but so did satisfaction. These women stood taller, moved with more confidence than they had that morning.
"Tomorrow, we build on today’s foundation," I announced. "Rest well tonight. You’ve earned it."
As the training yard emptied, Garrett approached again, water bottle in hand. "You were incredible today," he said, offering me the drink.
"Thank you," I replied, accepting the water gratefully. "But it’s their determination that deserves praise."
"Would you like to continue this discussion over dinner?" he asked suddenly. "There’s a new restaurant just outside the territory. Great steaks, private booths..."

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