Jordan’s point of view
I had heard words about rogues infuriating a pack, launching attacks, and causing a never-certain atmosphere for werewolves, but never for once had I heard of first-hand information or first-hand experience like the one that included Zane.
From my knowledge of rogues, I was meant to believe that these werewolves were banished from a pack who had no other pack but loitered around without any habitation. At times, they could cluster to form a colony, thereby inflicting harm, making war, or attacking their victims.
So what the hell brought about rogues with wind, flying and perching on nearly all environments, causing havoc and the loss of lives? Or could it be that there was an informant in the pack or clan that aided in disbursing the clan's activities or plans? Or could it actually be a coincidence?
Inasmuch as I'd been warned that Zane had no part to play in my destiny, wouldn't it be a better option to just allow the young promise he-wolf to continue his existence peaceable, or did the goddess notice he may cause a disruption of power, thereby neglecting to protect him from the dangerous world?
Right from the moment I saw his lifeless body lying all decomposed at the passage into the clan's square where the ceremony was being held, I could barely breathe, even though when I solicited for a space, a fresh air space, all to myself, it would assist in lessening the pressure that this ordeal had caused on my mental health.
I tossed about my chambers to the left, right, and centre, still unable to figure out the best means of achieving its reparation. I shuddered, my hands suddenly unable to grasp a drink or hold onto anything feasible, struck in a dreadful state and enough to render me ineffective each second of my existence as the head of the clan.
Finally, I was able to delve into a reasonable conclusion that involved allowing his burial ceremony to be conducted as soon as possible. Although reaching out to his parents from our far southern area would be a hell of a trip, I was willing to step in as we needed to finish up so that we could have our lives back to normalcy.
Zane was my friend and would have been my beta and advisor, but not for the attack. Hence our decision to cremate his corpse, which was a symbol of honour, thus bidding him farewell just like every great soldier who served well.
“Garnish his corpse and prepare for his funeral," I ordered.
"Ensure I get updated with every detail of the planning associated with the event. I'm I understood?”
"Yes, your majesty,” replied the enforcer. He bowed and exited the palace.
I was down at the moment and unable to attend to any duty that requested my audience, not now or anytime soon. I needed stability first in order not to take uncalculated decisions that would threaten the peace of the clan. Thus, I was going to hang up there and reminisce on my life's path, which was necessary for any mortal.
I gulped, with my hands cusped into my chin and my mind mused in thought of despair, “Was I really ready for this job?” I was swept away by a wave of devastation, which was a sequel to the turn of events at the square, particularly the deposit of his corpse immediately after my coronation ceremony on the general pathway. Was the goddess so insincere in her lookout for our well-being? I pondered.
Flynn, the Oracle, walked in after a while, though unnoticed by me. He had stuck around for a while, waiting for my acknowledgement of his presence. He is actually another dimension of the werewolf bloodline. He's got all the vibes, yet he's deeply rooted in and inclined towards the supernatural aspects of life's existence. A job, which he saw as the only reason he lived for.
“You need to cheer up and protect your people, your majesty. I guess you'll never want to be regarded as weak and unable to protect the interests of the entire clan, would you?”
"No." I nodded, straightening up into the right position as I offered him a seat.
“So, can you at least act strong? At least for the meantime, act cheerful, like you've got everything well planned, maybe when you're in your inner chambers, as you can now let the situation engulf your emotionality.
“You know, one thing I know is that your weaknesses can actually make you stronger.”
“I know you're being carried away by a wave of emotions right now, but, in this case, his demise should cause you to rise up and work for the safety of your people. You may decide to implant guards at the border and develop strategies in order to save and guard your clan. This will help the checkmate a lot. My advice though.”
“Let's see how to build a safer and more prosperous kingdom and correct this abnormality of our clan from being vulnerable to attacks, and you know, this won't be possible if you continue acting this way.”
He further added, “Think of the little pups, the fragile women, the handicapped and defenceless, etc. What strategy can be put in place to improve their wellbeing? Then, if possible, your plans for alliance with other packs.”
“I strongly believe you'll make a great leader, but for this to happen, your emotions should be put aside and you should concentrate on building.” With that, he ended his words and was about to leave.
“Least I forget, your emotions should only make you go with someone stronger for Luna.”
“Yeah, imagine the clan head and Luna crying at the time when there are kingdom matters to handle," he teased, laughing his ass out. So, you see? You need a complementary she-wolf, not just anyone. Well, I know the goddess will match you up then.”
“I guess it's time to go. I'll catch up with you later. But feel free to reach out to me anytime the need arises. I'll be at your call and beckon.”
"Thank you, Flynn; your words of encouragement are second to none. I'll make sure to act on all you've said. I'm really grateful.”
We exchanged handshakes and parted ways, waving goodbye to each other.