Upon entering the tea room, Kasia's eyes immediately locked on two unfamiliar women. Annoyance flared within her when she also spotted Miraya and Aimee seated with them. A pointed glare at Janet went unnoticed as she introduced the newcomers.
"Kasia, meet Meranda and Deanna," Janet said. "Meranda is the mate of Alpha's Beta, and Deanna is the mate of Alpha's Delta."
"It is a pleasure to meet you both," Kasia greeted them while ignoring Aimee and Miraya.
Deanna, with honey-colored skin, exuded a relaxed demeanor. She had full lips, sharp cheekbones, and tightly curled chestnut hair, but a scar that ran from the bridge of her nose to her chin marred her appearance. Curiosity flickered in her chocolate-brown eyes, hinting at a keen interest in Kasia. Toned arms and wide shoulders revealed that she was trained in hand-to-hand combat, a fact not lost on Kasia.
"You don't have to be so formal," Deanna said.
"She definitely does," Meranda retorted. "When are you going to take anything seriously?"
In stark contrast, Meranda exuded responsibility and control. Smooth, flawless bronzed skin, a simple ponytail revealing critical dark green eyes, and prominent features highlighted her authority. A sleek pantsuit emphasized professionalism and strength, while her physicality suggested agility and speed.
"As soon as there is a reason to," Deanna replied.
"Why is Aimee here?" Janet asked bluntly.
"Well, that's a little rude, Janet," Miraya interjected. "That's new coming from you."
Janet ignored Miraya's jab and continued. "I only ask as she was removed from these meetings once before because of her behavior."
"I invited her, as I believe we need more than just us to make decisions, as Miraya will do anything I say since she is my daughter, and I feel that Aimee has been punished enough," Meranda explained before turning her attention back on Kasia. "I could ask you the same thing about her. Why did you bring her here without approval?"
"Yes, she shouldn't be here. She's a rogue," Aimee added. "Why would we want a rogue in on our private business?"
Before Janet could respond, Deanna stepped in. "Rogue or not, she is the guest of Alpha Ethan. She should be here, as he has spent a lot of time with him." Deanna emphasized a lot, clearly looking to get under Aimee's skin.
"I didn't ask you, Deanna. I asked Janet why she brought her here," Meranda snapped, focusing back on Janet.
"Well, she can't answer that question since I am the one who invited her," Deanna explained.
"And why would you do such a thing?" Meranda asked, bewildered by Deanna's response.
"I am sure she would have great insight as someone from the outside looking in. Rogue or not, she was a high-ranking member of a very prominent pack. We should use her experience and knowledge," Deanna reasoned.
'Be cautious. You're being used in a powe play,' the voice in Kasia's head warned her. ;It seems that Meranda wants more control over what goes on.'
'But isn't Deanna a lower rank? Shouldn't she already have control over the situation?' Kasia asked.
'Debatable. The Lycan hierarchy is different from the Werewolf hierarchy,' the voice explained. 'Betas and Delta are interchangeable even though they serve different functions.'
'Where does Janet fall in this, as it seems that she has to acknowledge Meranda?' Kasia asked.
'She doesn't. Sigmas don't align with pack hierarchy, but they do have an important role as they can be more objective. Now, focus on them before you get your idiot self killed.'
Meranda extended a smile that failed to reach her eyes. "Please, have a seat." She motioned for Kasia to take a seat.
"Well, now that's settled. Let's begin, then. I mean, I do have other things I would like to do today," Deanna said with a yawn.
Meranda rolled her eyes. "We are here to discuss potential upgrades to the pack territory and requests from the pack. Let's begin with potential upgrades. We received suggestions for another flower garden."
"Another garden would be a lovely addition," Aimee suggested. "Perhaps one with exotic flowers and rare plants. It would be a sight to behold for visiting packs."
Kasia, unable to restrain herself, questioned the necessity. "Why is another garden necessary? The pack grounds are already beautiful."
Aimee scoffed. "Appearances are important. There is never a thing of too much. We must maintain our status and wealth to ensure that other packs respect us. You should know that, Kasia."
"That seems like a waste of resources," Kasia said as she sipped her tea.
Deanna's gaze landed on Kasia, seeking her input. "Well, Kasia, what do you recommend instead?"
"Instead of focusing on aesthetics, why not work towards being more self-sufficient? What would you all do if you could not get shipments from the city?" Kasia proposed. "A farm and an actual garden would provide food for the pack and lessen your reliance on the city for resources."
Deanna and Meranda exchanged approving glances. "That's an interesting idea," Meranda admitted as she penciled it down in her notebook.
"Of course, the omegas will do all the work, as always," Aimee interrupted.
"Everyone should be involved," Kasia countered firmly. "What would the pack do if there were no omegas or if something happened to them? We should foster a sense of community and shared responsibility."
"That's beneath me," Meranda responded.
"Then perhaps you need to rethink your position. A pack is as strong as their weakest member," Kasia retorted. Meranda frowned at her, and Deanna smirked.
Janet intervened, sensing escalating tensions. "I think we should take a quick recess. Kasia, let me speak with you outside."
As Kasia stood, Deanna grabbed her wrist. "Wait. Your ideas are quite intriguing. Would you be interested in joining me on patrol sometime? I'd love to learn more about your perspective on things."
A moment of hesitation passed, and Kasia nodded. "Alright, I'll join you on patrol."
"Excellent," Deanna said, smiling. "I look forward to getting to know you better in a more relaxed atmosphere."
As Kasia and Janet left the tea room, Janet was prepared to scold Kasia for her behavior, but a young Omega approached. "Excuse me, Kasia. Alpha Ethan has requested your presence in the east garden."
Aimee, who walked out behind them, overheard, and her face turned an ugly shade of red upon hearing this, her jealousy and anger flaring. Clenching her fists, she was enraged that Kasia had again shown her up. When Janet and Kasia had left, Aimee grabbed the omega and said, "I want you to get a pill bottle from Alpha's office."
"I can't do that. I am not allowed without permission," the omega explained.
"Beta Meranda approved it; as I said, I would get his refill on his prescription myself as we have dinner tonight," Aimee lied. "You wouldn't want to upset Beta Meranda or even Alpha."
"No ma'am. I will get it to you immediately."