Chapter 12

CARLYLE’S POV.

THREE YEARS LATER.

The search for Sidonnie proved futile, a gnawing ache in my chest that refused to subside. Despite numerous attempts to find her, she remained nowhere to be found, and the relentless search took its toll on my resolve and ye faith I had that she will surely be found. Eventually, a reluctant acceptance settled in, and I found myself redirecting the energy that once fueled the search for her into something else.

Returning to the hustle of my life as a businessman and the responsibilities that came with being an Alpha, I buried myself in the familiar rhythm of work.

The memories of Donnie lingered in the recesses of my mind, but I pushed them aside, compartmentalizing the personal turmoil to maintain a semblance of control. The notion that I made a huge mistake never ceased to leave my mind. It finds its way to me at any free time I had. In such times, I would take a look at the peony brooch the old lady gave me at the bar and caress it in my palm with the hope that one day, I’ll find her my mate.

–

As the weeks passed, the urgency of the search softened into a dull ache, blending seamlessly with the demands of my dual life. The business world became a refuge for me as it became a place where the echoes of unanswered questions couldn’t reach me.

“Carl,” Donald, my amiable Beta, strolled in with some files in his hand, his facial expression unsettling.

We were way closer than using honorifics for each other when we were alone.

“What is it, Don?” I responded to him fondly as I do usually.

“How many many times will I tell you not to call me that?” He took a scat beside me.

“So, what’s new?” I asked, knowing fully well that he came for business updates.

“Of course, there are lot of new things and I bet you’re going to find them interesting. As you know, our recent market analysis indicates a potential for strategic expansion in the Partic County, close to the Servians. I’ve been reviewing the reports and wanted to get your insights on this opportunity.” Donald began, and I listened with rapt attention.

“Okay, the Partic market is growing very fast, and it aligns with our long–term goals. I’ve looked into the economic trends, consumer behavior, and competition in the region. There’s an evident gap in the market that we could capitalize on. But what are the key factors that make this market appealing to us?”

“Firstly, the economic growth in the county is outrunning many other parts involved in.

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the business. There’s a rising middle class with increasing purchasing power. This gives us a significant opportunity for our products and services. Also, the demand for our niche is not being fully met by existing competitors.”

“Indeed, it is Interesting. How about the regulatory environment? Are there any challenges we should be aware of?”

“I looked into that as well. While there are some regulatory complexities, they are not insurmountable.

With proper legal counsel and a thorough understanding of local laws, we can navigate these challenges effectively. I’ve already initiated talks with a reputable law firm in the region to ensure compliance.

“That’s good. Thanks, Donald. I appreciate your thorough analysis. It shows how dedicated you are.

So, before we conclude, are there any potential risks or challenges you foresee?

“While the potential is high, the competition is also fierce. We need to stay agile and continuously adapt to the evolving market conditions.”

“Alright then, in that case, let’s schedule a follow–up meeting next week to finalize the strategy and allocate resources. Let’s make it happen.”

“At your service, Alpha.” He jokingly made a salute sign in our tradition, and I flashed a smile at him.

He bowed respectfully, and with a dignified departure, he approached the exit of the room.

“One more thing, Carl.” He paused in his steps, returning to my side.

“What is it?”

“There’s another pressing issue I forgot to bring up.” He announced.

“Okay, I’m all cars.”

“For some weeks now, there’s this group of supernaturals sniffing around our turf, and it’s getting hairy.

We need to do something about it before things go awry.”

“Oh, seriously? What do they want?”

“Power, territory, who knows? We can’t just howl them away. We have to find out to know what to do next “Who are they exactly? And why am I just hearing about this? It’s been weeks now and this is just getting to me?”

“I’m sorry about the late information. I had to double check the facts before letting your know since you were busy doing other important things. About who they are, we’re still investigating that. All I can say is that they’re very powerful and strong.”

“Fill me in.” I ordered, and Donald dived into the tale.

got reports from the parading guards that whenever they wake up in the morning, they find a weird sign on the border walks. At first, we took it to be nothing and wiped ite off but it didn’t stop there. One morning, that same sign was drawn on the walls in the torture square. Then, I knew it wasn’t something I could overlook anymore. Not long after that, expensive things that belonged to us began going missing and then, people.”

“Did you just say people?”

“Yes, I did. In total now, we have ten missing people. Three teenage pups and seven adult werewolves, each of them are related to royalty in some way.”

I went silent for a while, ruminating on the information Donald just told me about. Such incidents were the least of what I wanted on my plate at that time.

“So, what’s the plan, Carl?” Donald asked, breaking the lingering silence.

“First, we’re going to send some of our guys to chat with them, see if we can work things out without much damages. That way, we would find out more about them.”

“I did that already. My guys are working on it. But if that doesn’t work?”

“If talking fails, then we’ll show our teeth. But that’s plan B. We have to try keeping things cool first. You know, we don’t need anything that would tarnish our image in the market or anything that would slow down our progress.”

“Got it, Alpha. What about the upcoming Mating Moon? We were prepping for that.” Donald queried.

The mating moon is like an annual celebration in my pack which gives every wolf a chance to find its mate. Literally, that’s how it’s meant to be, but in the Moon Shade Pack, it goes beyond that.

“No worries, there’s no cause for alarm. Mating Moon stays on track. We need our pack strong and united. Let the moonlight do its thing.”

“Alright, Alpha.”

“But wait, you mentioned a sign being drawn on the pack walls constantly, can I see a sample of it? A drawing would do.”

Donald picked up a paper and did a quick sketch of the said symbol which turned out to be an emblem I recognized.

“Is this the sign you’re talking about?” I asked in surprise.

1 Mar ti G “Yes, it is. Do you recognize it?”

“Of course, this is the Canthrastra emblem.”

“What’s that?”

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“The Canthrastras are supernatural beings with the distinct features of werewolves, vampires, and sirens.”

“They’re more like hybrids?”

“More than that. Their powers are way superior to that of hybrids.”

“I’ve once read about them. But what’s the connection they have with us?” Donald asked.

“I have no idea. I’ll need to find out.”

“But we can’t handle this alone. I’ve decided to meet with Alpha Rex from the neighboring pack. We need allies, and he’s trustworthy.”

“Alpha Rex? That’s a big move, Carl. Are the Canthrastras that scary?”

“Big problems need big solutions. They’re very much scary. I shall brief you about them later. There’s quite a history dating back to decades.”

“Howls and claws, Carl. We’ll hold the fort. Safe travels,” Donald said, bumping fists with mine.

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