Stuck with the enemy

Chapter 45: We Are Going Home

Inside the courtyard, our cars come to a halt, and we step out, our gazes immediately drawn to the grandeur of the institution before us. It's breathtaking-like a palace, almost as beautiful as Alpha Lucian's estate. The main building rises with elegant stone arches, its windows framed by intricate carvings, and the sunlight glints off its tall, polished towers. Surrounding it are manicured lawns, fountains, and stone paths that stretch into what seems like a small city within walls.

For a moment, none of us speak, simply taking in the sheer magnitude of the place.

Then, breaking the silence, a tall man approaches us. His black hair is neatly combed back, and his tailored suit speaks of authority and precision. He exudes an aura of calm control, but his posture commands respect.

"Welcome," he says, his voice powerful yet surprisingly pleasant. "Welcome to Crescent Moon Pack Training Center. I'm Beta Paul, your supervisor and Beta to Alpha Derek."

A murmur ripples through the group as everyone gathers closer, listening attentively. Whispers buzz among us, some curious, others wary, but all laced with nervous energy.

"You can leave your cars here for now," Beta Paul continues, his tone firm yet composed. "After we tour the center, I will assign you to your new residences. Since the campus housing is already full, Alpha Lucian has arranged for four houses nearby to accommodate you. I assure you, these homes are in perfect condition and fully equipped for your needs."

He pauses, letting his words settle before continuing. "Before we begin, I'll outline the rules of the institution. These are non-negotiable and must be followed at all times."

The crowd quiets further, hanging on to his every word.

"First, any form of crime is strictly forbidden and will be dealt with in a tribunal before the Alpha. Just because Alpha Lucian has given you this chance doesn't mean you are exempt from the law. You will be treated no differently than any soldier of the Crescent Moon pack."

I can hear soft murmurs from the group behind me. Why even mention that? someone whispers. They're right-it feels redundant. Rules are rules everywhere.

"Training sessions begin promptly at 5 a.m.," Beta Paul continues, his sharp eyes scanning the crowd. "Lateness will be punished by your team leader, other superiors, or myself. Disobeying orders from a superior will have consequences. Fighting or arguing is strictly forbidden on campus and off-campus unless it is part of an official training session. Is that understood?"

The crowd nods in unison, though I can feel the tension thickening. Some of us exchange uneasy glances.

"Now," Beta Paul says, his piercing gaze landing on me, "I need to speak with the team leader... Deniz Brown."

I raise my hand and step forward. "Yes, that's me."

Beta Paul gives a curt nod. "Here, team leaders are tested to prove their capabilities. However, given your delayed arrival, you will assume the position of captain for now. That being said, this status can change at any time, depending on your performance. Keep in mind, for every infraction committed by a member of your team, you will be held accountable alongside them. Your role, beyond participating in your own training, includes ensuring the progress and discipline of your team. Any problems must be reported directly to a superior, preferably to me. Is that clear?"

"Yes, sir. I understand. Thank you," I reply, my voice steady despite the weight of his words.

"Good. Now," he says, stepping back slightly and gesturing toward the grand entrance of the main building, "we can begin the tour."

The tension eases slightly as we prepare to follow him. I glance back at my team, their expressions a mix of determination and unease. This is the start of something entirely new for all of us, and as we step forward together, I can only hope we're ready for what lies ahead.