Page 26 of Night with a Gamma
She shrugs, a determined look in her eyes. “Wren, I’ve been through worse. This is our chance to show Lenore we won’t be cowed or divided. We fight for each other, and that makes us stronger.”
Her words resonate with me, reminding me of the ties we share. I take a deep breath, centering myself as we transition into the first exercise — partner drills designed to enhance our fighting skills and coordination.
“Pair up!” I call out, watching as members of the pack break off into pairs, their movements fluid and practiced. “Focus on communication and trust. That’s what will keep us alive in the heat of battle.”
As I observe the pairs sparring, I can’t help but notice the synergy among them. They move with a grace that speaks to years of training, but there’s something deeper at play now — a shared purpose that unites us all. I move through the group, offering tips and encouragement, my heart swelling with pride as I witness the strength within each of them.
“Good, Alpha Wyatt! Keep your guard up!” I shout to the alpha, who is grappling with Dalton. “And you, Dalton, don’t underestimate him. He’s got a bite!”
The laughter that erupts from the pack eases the tension in the air, and I can see their spirits lifting. It reminds me why we’re here — to fight not just for survival, but for the family we’ve created.
After a solid hour of sparring, I call for a break, allowing everyone to hydrate and regroup. The sound of laughter and camaraderie fills the air, mingling with the scent of the forest around us. I take a moment to catch my breath, stepping aside to gather my thoughts.
“Wren!” Harrison calls, his voice cutting through the chatter. I turn to see him approaching, a towel draped over his shoulder and a playful grin on his face. “You’re doing great out there. The pack is really responding.”
“Thanks, baby,” I reply, unable to suppress my smile. “It feels good to be part of something bigger than just myself. I’ve never felt this connected to anyone before.”
He steps closer, the warmth of his presence wrapping around me like a protective cloak. “You’re a natural leader, Little Bird. I’ve seen it in you from the moment we met. Your coven is lucky to have you.”
The sincerity in his words sends a rush of warmth through me, and I lean into him, grateful for his support. “I couldn’t do this without you, Harrison. You give me strength when I doubt myself.”
He brushes a strand of hair behind my ear, his touch sending shivers down my spine. “We’re a team, remember? We’ll face whatever comes our way together.”
Just then, Poppy approaches us, her eyes glimmering with excitement. “Wren, you won’t believe what I just overheard!” she exclaims, her voice bubbling with energy. “Wyatt is planning a surprise for us after training.”
“A surprise?” I ask, intrigued. “What is it?”
She leans in closer, lowering her voice conspiratorially. “Apparently, he’s set up a bonfire by the creek for some much-needed downtime. He wants to lift everyone’s spirits after the chaos we’ve faced.”
“That sounds perfect,” I say, feeling a sense of relief wash over me. “We could all use a chance to relax and bond outside of training.”
Harrison nods, a smile breaking across his face. “Count me in. It’ll be good for the pack to unwind. Plus, I could use a break before we dive back into planning.”
With the promise of a bonfire hanging in the air, I feel a renewed sense of energy as we return to our training. The next phase involves incorporating magic into our fighting techniques, something that excites me as a witch.
“Alright, everyone,” I call, gathering their attention once more. “Now we’re going to combine our physical training with some magical elements. I want you to focus on channeling your energy into your movements. Imagine your magic flowing through you, enhancing your strength.”
The pack members nod, their expressions serious as they prepare to delve deeper into the blending of our abilities. I step into the center of the clearing, feeling the energy of the earth beneath my feet. Drawing on the connection I have with the soil and fire, I let my magic flow through me, illuminating the space around us.
“Let’s start with some basic offensive spells. You can use them to distract or disable your opponent,” I instruct, demonstrating a simple spell that sends a flicker of energy toward a nearby tree. The bark erupts in a shower of sparks, and the pack gasps in awe.
“Now you try!” I encourage them, watching as they pair off once again with one witch to their wolf, this time incorporating small bursts of magic into their movements. The clearing fillswith a kaleidoscope of colors as spells and energy intertwine, creating a mesmerizing display.
“Fantastic, everyone!” I cheer, feeling the excitement pulse through the group. “Remember, it’s not just about brute strength; it’s about strategy and creativity. Use your surroundings to your advantage.”
As the training session continues, I can feel the bonds between the pack and my coven strengthening. We’re no longer just allies; we’re family, united in our purpose to protect one another from the looming darkness.
After several hoursof intense training, I finally call for a break. The pack members drop to the ground, panting and laughing, their camaraderie evident in the easy banter that fills the air.
“Alright, everyone,” I say, my voice ringing out over their chatter. “As promised, Alpha Wyatt has set up a bonfire by the West Creek for some much-needed relaxation. Let’s head over and celebrate our hard work!”
Cheers erupt as the pack rises to their feet, excitement palpable in the air. I glance at Harrison, who is already making his way toward the path leading to the creek. With a smile, I follow him, feeling a sense of anticipation bubbling within me.
As we approach the bonfire, the warm glow of the flames flickers against the backdrop of the night sky. The air is filled with the scent of burning wood and the sound of laughter, creating a sense of comfort that wraps around us like a warm blanket.
Wyatt stands by the fire, a proud smile on his face as he welcomes everyone. “I thought we could all use a little celebration after today’s training. You’ve all worked incredibly hard, and I’m grateful for each of you.”
The pack gathers around the fire, settling onto logs and blankets as the warmth radiates from the flames. I take a seat beside Harrison, feeling the heat from the fire chase away the chill of the evening air and help replenish some of the magical energy I expelled today.
