Life's trials are indeed formidable, but what proves even more arduous is the weight of your entire clan's expectations upon your shoulders. When each member relies on you, when you know failure is not an option, and when their trust in you must remain unbroken, life becomes a relentless test of fortitude. Such is my existence. As the sole daughter of an Alpha, I have been taught to embody strength, even when my inner being feels shattered. My vulnerability must remain concealed; my emotions hidden. This world is unforgiving, and to confront it, one must either be as strong as steel or as cruel as it is. My father has always taught me to choose strength and purity of heart over cruelty.

I am Rees, Rees Watson, the only daughter and heir of Alpha Watson. Today marks the most significant day of my life, a day our pack, the Abbesses Pack, has anticipated since my birth. Today, I assume my father's mantle and lead our pack.

Sitting on this bench, gazing at the serene river and listening to the birds' melodious chirping, I find a semblance of peace amidst my inner turmoil. The Acceptance ceremony draws near, and though I must return home, I am reluctant to leave this place, knowing I may not see it again soon. My wolf, Liza, comforts me, providing the strength I need to don my mask and face the expectant crowd.

"Rees Watson! What do you think you are doing here? I have been searching for you like a madwoman, and here you are, admiring the lake!" Kira's voice startles me, yet I cannot help but regard her with calmness. She alone perceives my hidden expressions.

"Do not give me that look. Come on, the Alpha is looking for you. It is finally time." I nod and proceed without waiting for her.

"You know you can speak," she remarks, catching up to me.

"You know you look better when silent," I retort, eliciting a playful smack on my back.

"Remind me why we are still friends?"

"Because I am too precious for you to lose!" I reply, grasping her hand and walking alongside her.

"You have a point! Now, stop pretending in front of me. I know the Acceptance ceremony is tearing you apart inside!" I halt at her words. She knows me well enough to discern my true feelings.

"Fine, I am worried they will not love me as they do Father. Kira, what if I fail? What if I cannot be the Alpha they expect? What if they come to despise me?"

"Rees, cut the nonsense! They already adore you. You are the most powerful among us, fearless, and you treat everyone like family. We love you, Rees, and nothing will change that, understand?" Her anger is evident, but her words fill my wolf with pride.

"Let us go before your sweetness overwhelms me," I say, hugging her. Together, we return to the pack house.

********

"You look beautiful!" Mother exclaims as she enters my room, embracing me.

"Thank you, Mother," I reply, returning her hug.

"Oh, come now! Show some emotion! Today is your Acceptance ceremony as the new Alpha of the Abbesses Pack."

"I know, Mother. Look, I am happy," I say, attempting to smile but failing. It is nearly impossible for me to act freely, even with her.

"Forget it! Your father will pay for this. He has changed my baby girl completely!" She storms off in anger, but her words bring a smile to my face. I am grateful for her.

"Rees, it is time. Let us go!" Kira arrives, guiding me towards the pack grounds.

With each step, my heart races. The walls seem to close in, my carefree childhood memories flashing by, my rigorous training culminating in this moment. As we approach the end of the corridor, I hear the voices awaiting my grand entrance and the assumption of my responsibilities. They speak of me with affection.

"Rees! Rees!" "Rees! Rees!" Their cheers fill the air.

"Everyone, today is the day we have all awaited! Please, be silent and recognize our soon-to-be Alpha," Father announces, silencing the crowd. He gestures for me to join him on stage.

"Rees, you understand the duties of an Alpha," he says, holding the Sword of Wisdom.

"Yes, Alpha," I reply, meeting his gaze.

"Then you know it is now your duty to care for this pack as your own child." He unsheathes the sword, its blade gleaming in the moonlight.

"Yes, Alpha," I respond, watching him cut his palm with the sword, blood flowing freely.

"Give me your hand." I extend my hand, and he slices it as well. As our blood mingles, I feel the power of the Alpha flooding into me, the bond with my pack members tying them to my heart. Emotions overwhelm me, but I maintain my stoic expression. Moments later, Father releases my hand, and the wound heals.

He directs me to the front of the stage to take my pledge.

"I, Rees Watson, wholeheartedly accept the responsibilities of being the Alpha of the Abbesses Pack. Today, I pledge to bind my soul to this pack and serve it until my last breath. I will protect it with all my life, strive to bring a brighter future, and expand its renown to all corners of the world. I pledge my loyalty to this pack and ask for your loyalty in return.

I, Rees Watson, daughter of the former Alpha, Michael Watson, accept my new responsibilities and the title of Alpha of the Abbesses Pack..."

Cheers erupt as I complete my pledge. The pack members' eyes are filled with tears, mourning the departure of their former Alpha but also welcoming me with joy and enthusiasm.

"Members of the Abbesses Pack, I present to you your new Alpha, Alpha Rees," Father announces proudly. My wolf, Liza, takes control, and I allow her. In seconds, I shift into my wolf form and run towards the woods, the pack following.

Today marks the beginning of a new chapter. I am no longer the young daughter of an Alpha in training but the Alpha who will lead my pack through every journey of life.