Chapter 233

The notion of becoming a female warrior for the werewolf kingdom felt like an unexpected twist in my life's narrative. I shifted uncomfortably in my seat, glancing between the Alpha King and Prince Alexander.

"Your Highnesses, I appreciate the offer, but I still need to finish high school. I can't just leave everything behind and become a warrior."

The Alpha King's eyes scrutinized me, and for a moment, I thought I saw a glint of disappointment. "Shana, we can arrange for your education here. Consider this palace your university. We can provide you with the necessary resources, and you'll receive the finest education while training to become a formidable warrior."

His words hung in the air, and I felt the weight of his expectation.

"I'm sorry, but I'm not just going to drop my entire life and start a new school when I only have a few months left at Shadow High," I said, my voice feeling shaky.

Not only was the notion absurd, but I didn't trust the Alpha King after what he had done. If I agreed to his command, I would be here all on my own without Lucas, Grandma Jo, or my other friends.

"That's fair," the Prince said, nodding his head. "That's a big change to make in such a short amount of time."

The King didn't seem to understand as much as his son and seemed somewhat frustrated by my refusal. Although, he tried to continue persuading me.

"Well, if not school, then training. You can travel here. We can have Liam escort you to and from the palace whenever you would need to train."

The King's earlier words, calling me a warrior, make me hesitant. I didn't think of myself as someone who wanted to fight in battles.

I had no interest in one day joining a war... I mean, how would that even be possible for someone like me?

"I appreciate the offer, Your Highness, but I'm not sure if being a warrior aligns with what I want for my future."

The Alpha King's expression changed, and there was a subtle hint of threat in his tone. "Shana, the White Wolf, holds a significant role in our nation. Your abilities are crucial for our defense."

"I just can't picture myself fighting in a bloody battle, that's all," I said, trying to get the King to understand my perspective.

Honestly, the thought of potentially fighting a war against other nations terrified me.

The Alpha King leaned back on his ornate throne, studying me with an intensity that sent shivers down my spine.

His piercing gaze bore into my soul as if searching for a trace of agreement beneath my words of reluctance.

"Shana," he said, his voice low and commanding, "your abilities are not a mere choice. They are a responsibility bestowed upon you, a duty you cannot escape."

"The White Wolf has always played a crucial role in maintaining the balance of power in our realm," Prince Alexander cut in to explain. "It's what the legend has foretold."

"It is not a matter of what you want but what the kingdom needs," the Alpha King finished.

I bit my lip, grappling with the weight of his words. The burden associated with the title of the "White Wolf" felt like an anchor dragging me into uncharted waters.

I thought of Lucas who was somewhere within this castle. I wondered what he would make of all this. I wished that he could be here to see the gravity of the situation I've been thrust into. His presence would make me feel so much better.

The King continued, his tone unwavering, "Our enemies are always seeking an opportunity to exploit our vulnerabilities. Your refusal to embrace your role may leave our borders exposed, jeopardizing the safety of our people. Can you truly turn your back on your newfound duty?"

His words hung heavy in the air, and for a moment, the grandeur of the palace seemed to press upon me. I took a deep breath, summoning the courage to stand firm in my convictions.

"I understand the importance, Your Highness, but my aspirations lie beyond the battlefield. I wish to contribute to our kingdom in ways that align with my own values and skills. Perhaps there's another path where I can serve without directly engaging in warfare?"

The Alpha King's expression softened, though the subtle hint of disappointment lingered. He seemed torn between the desire for a powerful defender and the recognition of my autonomy.

"Shana, there is no immediate threat of war," Prince Alexander explained.

"But one day there might be," I argued.

He was silent.

"War might come one day, yes. But then, we would be ready and you would be prepared. With you... we have an excellent chance of protecting the nation." The King looked at me, hoping that I understood the gravity of the situation.

"Shana," he continued, his tone gentler, "I appreciate your aspirations, but the fate of the kingdom often demands sacrifices. Consider your decision carefully. The White Wolf's role is not merely a title... it is a legacy that defines the destiny of our people."

"It's not just about what you want," Prince Alexander said, with an unreadable expression on his face. "I know that sounds... harsh. But it's about your responsibility to our people. The people of the werewolf nation. Your friends."

I agreed. His words were harsh, but a small part of me felt like it was true.

I was the White Wolf, and I was meant to be this strong, all-powerful wolf who had the ability to change our society.

Would I be wasting it away if I didn't agree to the King's demands? Maybe I needed to come here to train in order to prepare myself. I wouldn't want to let down my loved ones if there ever was a war.

If I could mean the reason for saving their lives, then I would do it.

But how would I get there?

Did I really have it within me to change and be the White Wolf that has been described in all the legends?

Suddenly, I felt cornered, my options narrowing down to a choice between compliance and risking the displeasure of the Alpha King. Just as I was about to voice more of my concerns, Prince Alexander interjected.

"Father, Shana has only just arrived. Let her consider our proposition. She still has a bit more time at the palace. That should be enough time for her to come to a decision."

The Alpha King's gaze shifted to his son, and there was a moment of tense silence.

Finally, he relented.

"Okay, Alexander. You bring up a very fair point." His eyes shifted toward me. "Shana, I'll give you until you leave to decide. I do hope that is enough time for you to come to your decision."

I gave him a tight nod. "Yes, thank you. I believe that will be more than enough time for me to... think about all this."

Even with the seemingly generous timeframe, I couldn't shake the feeling that my choices were limited.

The palace once looked and felt like a fairytale, but now, felt like a gilded cage with expectations and responsibilities closing in around me.