Oscar reached for his coffee mug. He inhaled the unmistakable aroma that warmly filled the air and indulged his taste buds with the first sip. A refreshing taste jolted him and his eyes cleared.
"Our sales growth has been steadily increasing for the past two quarters. With a more aggressive marketing strategy, we've managed to attract attention in the market, especially in the international market."
Oscar put the coffee cup back on the coaster and asked the marketing director, Donald Hall.
"What about the competition? Are there any new trends we should be aware of?"
Donald shook his head. "So far, we remain ahead, but I suggest we focus on product innovation. Competitors continue to try to approach our superiority in the premium market."
"What about the new project we're developing? How is it progressing?"
"We are currently in the testing phase for the organic product line with a broader market reach," Donald replied, rolling the slide on th
"I must be dreaming. This can't be real."That's what Era thought when she opened her eyes. She saw the ceiling and it took her a moment to realize the situation.First of all, Era was in her room. This was not Oscar's room, and her memory went back thirty days to when she was rescued by Philo and ended up resting in the Alpha's bed. A day later, she managed to convince Aaron to prepare a private room. She managed to dash Oscar's hopes of spending the night together and used the situation to flirt with him.Second, Era was sure she had missed something. As far as she remembered, she was getting ready for the Sacred Ceremony. Ursa dressed her and they left. She even exchanged glances with Oscar before...Era winced. She closed her eyes tightly and held her head. Various uncertain flashes filled her mind, causing her pain."You're awake."Era opened her eyes. "Landon.""I hope we could meet under different circumstances," Landon said as
Era just hoped to lead a normal life. At least she did not want to experience strange visions every time she woke up.Just like what was happening now. Era opened her eyes and froze as a memory flashed through her mind."Let me go, Oscar! I said let me go! Let me be free!""You can plan, you can try, but you won't be able to escape me. Your place and your destiny is here, with me!"Era closed her eyes again. She did not want to remember this embarrassing moment. Even though she had gathered all her courage to jump through the window and face the rough stones below, what happened? Oscar foiled her plan too easily."Damn you, Oscar."A deep voice filled Era's ears, followed by a question."Did you just curse me?"Era's eyes widened instantly. She turned around and her eyes got even bigger. There was Oscar, lying next to her, shirtless, propped up on one elbow."Oscar. W-what are you doing here?"Os
Era finished her breakfast. The feeling of fullness filled her stomach and her face looked fresher. She leaned back in the chair in a relaxed position, then noticed that Oscar was silent for a moment, thinking about something."What is it? Why are you silent? Is something on your mind?"Oscar blinked, then shook his head. "Nothing. I'm just thinking about my schedule for today."Era glanced briefly as Oscar stood up."I'll go, and in the meantime, I'll instruct Ursa to take care of you. You have much to learn, and I'll remind you of one thing," Oscar said, raising his index finger. He emphasized his warning. "Do not even think of escaping. If you try to escape, I'll make sure I catch you and put you in the underground dungeon.""Underground dungeon?"Oscar grinned with a mocking expression. "If you don't believe me, go ahead.""Oscar!"Oscar left without paying attention to Era, who suddenly became agitated. He grabbed his paja
Era remained silent, watching as Julie rejoined the group of teenage werewolves. Upon reflection, this might not be the first time she and Julie had crossed paths. They had run into each other several times while Era was roaming the palace, and she noticed that Julie was a bit different from the other werewolves, who always seemed friendly and enthusiastic towards her; Julie was not.That did not mean Era was offended, not at all. Instead, she admitted that running the palace must be very tiring. Especially since, as she began to learn about werewolf life, she became aware of the Palace's problems to a certain extent.Oscar was not only supported by Aaron as Guardian, Ursa as Sacred Elder and Philo as Beta. There was also Julie, who took care of the Palace in her position as Gamma. In Era's eyes, Julie's responsibilities were similar to those of a housewife, taking care of all the household matters. So, she understood if Julie seemed tired and weary at times."S
"Are you sure?"Oscar knew that Philo was always meticulous. It was impossible for him to make a mistake on a task. However, he reflexively asked when Philo had finished reporting the information he wanted."I'm sure, Alpha. Amias is not a werewolf," Philo replied.Oscar squeezed his fingers. "What about his mother? Uh, Sylvie?""I don't know, Alpha," Philo replied, feeling guilty, then explained. "Sylvie died ten years ago. I checked the cemetery and dug up her grave, but there was no trace at all. Her bones were completely destroyed."Oscar growled. "Of course, you wouldn't find any clues. Surely her bones are completely crushed."Philo remained silent while Oscar thought. Then he gave an order."Summon Ursa."Philo nodded. "Alright."Ursa arrived about five minutes later. She glanced at Philo briefly, as if she wanted to know why she had been summoned. At the very least, she wanted to prepare.Unfortunately, Ph
Era looked at Oscar with a victorious gleam in her eyes. Her chin lifted high, showing arrogance. She enjoyed Oscar's poker face for a moment as she reached for a glass of milk."How about it, Oscar?" Era asked after enjoying her first sip of milk. She briefly wiped the milk residue from her lips with the tip of her tongue, eliciting a growl from Oscar. "Will you keep me imprisoned in the palace like a typical selfish man or will you let me continue my journey to achieve my dreams like a true gentleman?"Oscar's eyes narrowed. He met Era's gaze with an expression that defied interpretation. There was a hint of amusement at the corner of his lips. "I can assure you that I am both a selfish and a gentleman."A startling answer. Era did not stay on top for long. Now she planted her feet firmly on the ground and asked, "What do you mean?""You'll find out later," Oscar replied as he continued to eat. He gestured to the breakfast spread with a knife in his han
In truth, Aaron was not too busy. The tasks Oscar had given him a few days ago were not too onerous. Everything was manageable, but that did not mean it did not take time and energy.Aaron traveled to the Celestial City. There were several important things he needed to take care of regarding the upcoming end of the summer vacation."How is everything going? Is it all done?"Aaron nodded. That night, at exactly eleven o'clock, he was summoned by Oscar. So, he went to Oscar's office and reported all the results of his work, even though his not-so-young body was already screaming for rest."The apartment, car, credit cards and all of Era's needs are ready, Alpha."Oscar left the product development proposal he had been studying for the past hour. Now there was something more important than the latest innovation in the organic food industry.Aaron handed him a tablet. He showed various photos of the appearance of the apartment, the car, and all
Eight in the morning. The car Philo was driving had left the palace. It was accompanied by Aaron, Era and Oscar. While Aaron accompanied Philo in the front seat, it was different for Era and Oscar. They were in the back seat with a partition installed.Era kept reminding herself to keep her emotions in check. Instead of worrying about Oscar, who kept staring at her throughout the ride, it was better to remember the events of a while ago, especially before she left the Palace.Era had never imagined that her departure would make the inhabitants of The Palace sad. The werewolves surrounded her like ants swarming with sugar. They offered prayers and wishes, mostly hoping that she could finish her studies quickly so she would not have to leave the Palace again. They also asked her to visit The Palace often and to keep in touch with them.Era felt a bit amused. She was not going to a distant part of the world, just to Celestial City. Strangely, they acted as if she w
The sound of a heavy thud echoed as a brown-maned wolf was violently thrown to the arena floor. It whimpered quietly, but a second later it rose quickly. Strengthening its initially wobbly legs, it then leapt, intent on retaliating against the golden-maned wolf that had made it the object of ridicule for the past ten minutes.The golden wolf dodged effortlessly, as if the brown wolf's attack was nothing, completely harmless. It showed no fear and instead continued to attack with bold courage.The golden wolf's movements were very agile and nimble, causing its mane to flicker and shed shafts of light everywhere. It seemed to light up the dimly lit battle arena. Its attacks were precise, full of accuracy and power. As a result, the brown wolf was cornered, and the spectators were filled with awe.The golden wolf's claws sliced through the air with incredible speed. The brown wolf could not dodge. It chest was ripped open. It blood vessels burst.But the golden wolf didn't stop. It contin
The previous nights had indeed been painful. Era was always worried about the condition of the people around her who were experiencing bad things because of her. But at least she could still sleep, even if she woke up feeling tired. Now, on the contrary, she couldn't even close her eyes for a minute.Era's feelings were truly uncertain. Even words like anxious, uneasy, worried, or scared couldn't describe her feelings now. She was adrift, trapped between waves that kept trying to pull her into an endless ocean.Era gave up. Trying to sleep was useless. Closing her eyes only made her more exhausted. So, she got out of bed.There was only one thing Era could do now, and that was to occupy herself. She had to distract her mind. She had to keep herself busy or the clock on the wall would explode from the constant staring.Era grabbed her pajama robe and quickly put it on. Then she left the room and wasn't surprised at all to find Aaron there."Luna," Aaron greeted as he folded the newspap
Oscar was determined not to let Era's worries and fears come true. So, he made the most of the time he had left. He trained diligently, perfecting all the techniques and strategies he had learned over the years. He wouldn't let any weakness get in the way of his goal. He had to return with his life intact.However, Oscar didn't just focus on himself and the upcoming fight. He wouldn't neglect something far more important, even more important than his own life.Oscar gathered several people in his office. It was just before they left for Riverdale Bluffs.Everyone gathered. Tension hung in the air. Their faces were filled with apprehension."Tonight," Oscar began, looking at each of them. His expression showed utmost seriousness. "I am going to Riverdale Bluffs with Philo, Thad, and several warriors. Although this is a one-on-one fight between me and Nicholas, no enemy can be trusted. So, vigilance is paramount."Oscar was determined to fight with determination and not allow Nicholas t
District Marindale, more precisely in the Falindor Forest—Ryloston Pack Palace.Freddy was inhaling the aroma of an 18-year-old single malt whisky that had just been poured into a rock-cut crystal glass by Peter McKay—watcher—when Bernard arrived. He knew that Bernard must have important news. But that didn't mean Bernard's arrival should interfere with his desire to relax.The crystal glass turned slowly. There was a soft clink as the ice hit the sides, creating faint ripples in the whisky. Freddy closed his eyes and savored the first sip. So did he, not wanting to miss a single taste sensation in every drop of whisky.Bernard, understanding Freddy's nature and character, decided to remain silent for a moment. He stood still, not saying a word until Freddy finally spoke."How is it, Bernard? Any news from Xylvaneth?"Bernard lifted his face slightly. He watched Freddy, eyes closed, still enjoying the whisky. "Nothing, Alpha."The spinning of the crystal glass stopped. Freddy's relaxe
Getting enough rest was never the answer to Era's anxiety; she had proven that. No matter how often or how long she slept, it didn't make her feel better. In fact, it only made her feel worse. When she slept, she was trapped in nightmares, and when she woke up, she was faced with a grim reality."Oscar?"Era looked around to find the room silent. She was alone; Oscar was not there.A heavy feeling made Era catch her breath. It was as if hundreds of tons of weight were trying to render her powerless. However, she managed to move her body, albeit with great difficulty. She got out of bed and at the same time Aaron entered the room."Luna." Aaron approached and helped Era. "How are you feeling?"Era winced slightly. She sat down and Aaron quickly prepared a glass of warm water. "I've never felt so bad, Aaron." She accepted the warm water and took a few sips. "According to Landon, I'm fine. I just need to rest, but why does my body feel completely powerless?"Aaron took the glass back and
Era remained silent as she felt the change in the atmosphere of the room. She cleared her throat, took a deep breath and scanned her surroundings. She saw Philo, who had just said something completely absurd. I am the last descendant of the Selunar Pack? Impossible.Era then turned to Dom. She remembered that just moments ago, maybe only a few minutes before, Dom had asked her about the possibility that her parents were not her biological parents. How could he ask such a strange thing?Finally, Era looked at Oscar. She paused for a moment before finally speaking in a low voice. "No, Oscar." She shook her head. "That's not me. I don't know anything about the Selunar Pack. It's completely unfounded gossip. I am the daughter of Amiass Ross and Sylvie Blair."This time, Oscar said nothing. He just stared at Era intently without blinking. His gaze was unreadable, which made Era feel uncomfortable.Era bit her lower lip. She tried to control herself as the discomfort made her act strangely.
Day after day passed with increasing agony. The Palace of Xylvaneth was filled with an atmosphere of tension. Not only Era and Oscar, but everyone felt anxious and on guard for any possibility that could happen at any time.Era tried not to think about the terror the Ryloston Pack had caused. She knew that Oscar had already ordered Philo to go to the Ryloston Pack's palace. So, all she could do now was wait for news from Philo.Unfortunately, bad thoughts kept creeping in and trying to shake Era's composure. What if Philo's arrival only made the situation worse?Era.Era blinked. The voice of her wolf spirit echoed in her head. I am really scared.Calm down. There is nothing to be afraid of. Oscar will take care of everything.Era winced. I know that. Oscar will take care of everything, but I am really confused as to why this is happening. Dad and Dree have already been affected. What if the same thing happens to others?Era, calm down. I promise you; everything will be fine. This wil
Philo understood, four in the morning was not a usual time to check out, but that was exactly what he did. All his belongings were neatly packed into a 20-inch suitcase, and then he left the room. He took the elevator down to the lobby and checked out with the desk clerk. Then he left the hotel.Philo's car moved smoothly through the still empty streets. His intention was to reach The Palace as quickly as possible. He had to report his findings as soon as possible.Philo stepped on the accelerator. The car's speed increased and suddenly his phone vibrated. At the same time, the dashboard screen lit up, indicating an incoming call, and the name displayed made him pull over immediately. He pressed the green button on the touchscreen and answered the call."Philo."Philo's brow furrowed slightly as he answered. "Hello, Alpha." Oscar's voice sounded different, indicating tension and anger. So, he asked quickly, "What is it, Alpha?""I order you to go to Ryloston Palace immediately."That
It was not unusual for Oscar to reassemble Dom and the others after the attack on Irene. He questioned Irene thoroughly, making sure nothing was overlooked. He made sure that nothing was done hastily.Oscar wouldn't keep quiet, that much was certain. Irene wasn't hurt, but the actions of the Lynoria Pack were like a blatant confrontation, an act that shouldn't have happened. Therefore, he made sure there would be a response to any form of threat they faced."Not just intercept and attack," Oscar growled after hearing Irene's full report. His face reddened, indicating immense anger upon realizing that his emissary had been sneakily attacked. "Even a single word of mockery must be answered."If anyone understood the terrible consequences of war, it was Oscar. He had felt the sadness and agony of war, convinced that nothing good could come of it. Loss was an inevitable price to be paid by all parties. So, he vowed to avoid war as much as possible.Oscar hated war, but at the same time he