Alpha Jack was already there, waiting with the other pack warriors and omegas, as I took my place. Georgia smirked at me, knowing full well that my tardiness had annoyed the Alpha.
"Great, just what I need," I thought to myself.
Alpha Jack was tall and imposing, with a muscular build that spoke of strength and discipline. Years of physical training and combat had chiseled his physique. His hair, dark and thick, was kept neatly trimmed, though occasionally a few rebellious strands would fall across his face, giving him a slightly rugged appearance. His eyes, a deep and intense green, radiated wisdom and determination. Weathered yet healthy, his time spent outdoors was evident in his tan complexion.
He possessed a strong jawline adorned with a hint of stubble, high cheekbones, and a straight nose. His expressions were often serious, but they would soften around his eyes whenever he was surrounded by his pack members.
I rolled my eyes at the thought. Alpha Jack cleared his throat. "Welcome everyone to the warrior trials. I know you have all been training extremely hard for the past few months for this moment, and I would like to congratulate you on your efforts."
Alpha Jack began pacing back and forth, maintaining eye contact with everyone to let his words resonate.
"Becoming a pack warrior brings great honor. It not only provides you the chance to rise from omega to warrior but also to earn respect from the pack members.
Being a pack warrior is about more than just pride and glory; it comes with dangerous territory and significant responsibilities."
Alpha Luke paused, letting the gravity of his words take effect.
"A pack warrior must prioritize the lives of the pack over their own, embracing the mission to risk their lives for the sake of others.
You will rely on your fellow warriors to support you, as they will rely on you. Having the trust and respect of all warriors is crucial, as lacking it endangers you in battle. Without exception, you will obey the commands of your Alpha and commanding officer, Beta Luke."
I observed some omegas starting to shuffle their feet nervously, taking in the alpha's words.
Georgia, on the other hand, seemed unaffected, caught up in her blatant flirtation. She twirled her hair around her fingers, gazing at the Alpha with barely concealed desire, probably imagining herself as the next Luna.
The mere idea of Georgia becoming the next pack Luna sent shivers down my spine. "Gross," I thought.
Alpha Jack continued, "Today's trials will include the following. First, you will be tested on agility and stamina, the second test will measure your strength and willpower, and the third will assess your combat skills, including how you utilize your strengths and weaknesses and those of your opponents.
The outcomes of today's trials will be announced to the pack tomorrow evening during our communal dinner. Good luck," Alpha Jack finished, moving to the stalls with his Beta to observe as the trials commenced.
Georgia sauntered by, tossing her hair with a flick and murmuring, "Yeah, Fatty Katty, good luck—you're going to need it," before walking away.
For once, I didn't disagree. I was aware of my lack of strength, yet I remained hopeful that my agility, stamina, and combat skills would compensate.
With a deep sigh, I approached the group of omegas waiting for the series of tests. "Here goes nothing," I thought to myself.
After several groups had finished the agility course, it was my turn.
I approached the platform and the beep sounded, marking the commencement of the test.
I quickly advanced towards the dense forest, where hurdles of various heights and angles were set up.
The hurdles on the ground were easy to navigate as I smoothly sailed over them. The mid-air hurdles presented a challenge, but I leveraged the forest's trees to propel myself forward, effortlessly clearing the obstacles.
The angled hurdles, particularly those suspended in mid-air, seemed to challenge some of the omegas.
However, the grounded angled hurdles posed no problem; I tackled them diagonally, allowing my body to slip through seamlessly.
When faced with a high, angled hurdle, I surveyed my environment and spotted a loose vine. I ascended the tree swiftly and, with a strong kick, swung over the hurdle using the vine.
During this phase of the trial, I, along with Georgia, a handful of her followers, and a small contingent of other omegas, were at the forefront of the tests. We broke into a full sprint, leaving the dense forest behind as we traversed a vast expanse of undulating grass. It was here that I picked up speed, overtaking everyone in the group, eliciting a look of disdain from Georgia.
As I widened the gap between myself and the others, Georgia included, I was aware that the final segment of the trial was approaching. I remained vigilant, scouting for potential targets. The first one emerged to my left; I dashed to the right of it and executed a dive. Subsequently, I encountered a target symbolizing an adversary, maneuvered beneath it, and continued my sprint.
A few more targets entered my vision and path but I successfully avoided all of them as I approached the end of the track where Beta Luke awaited me.
He monitored my pulse and the duration of my recovery after the strenuous exercise.
I closed my eyes, retreated to my mental sanctuary, and breathed deeply.
In moments, I sensed my heart rate return to normal. Beta Luke's fleeting expression did not go unnoticed, although he masked it quickly; I doubted others saw, but I certainly did.
There was no time to ponder his reaction, as the next challenge awaited: the strength test. Daunting, indeed.