For the next few weeks, Alexander explores his career options. While the Army may no longer be an available path, there's still numerous opportunities open to the young wolf, and after a few interviews at various firms, he is offered a job at a construction company, which he accepts. For a few months, everything goes smoothly: Alexander's natural strength proves to be an advantage, and his stamina allows him to work harder for longer than most of his peers.
But it seems the Fates have other plans. Just four months into the job, the firm suffers a major financial loss because of a fatal on‑site accident and the subsequent compensation claim, and the arrest and gaoling of one of the company directors on charges of embezzlement. Unable to stay afloat, the company falls into receivership, and after being bought out by a competitor firm, the company is gutted and the workforce laid off.
Thankfully for Alexander, finding a new job doesn't take long. As luck would have it, the firm that bought out his former employer is owned by a powerful businessman, and he's looking to expand his personal security force.
Late evening, and Alexander arrives for his first day in his new job: he is greeted at the main gate by a middle‑aged leopard.
"Welcome," the leopard greets. "I'm Wilson, Head of Security, and I'll be conducting your induction."
"Thank you," Alexander replies. "And thanks again for this opportunity."
"Not at all," Wilson smiles. "What happened to your old firm was unfortunate: I'm just glad I could offer one of those affected a second chance. Now, let's not waste time: I imagine you're eager to get started."
Alexander nods in agreement.
"Good," Wilson continues. "Let's start with a quick tour, then we'll get you kitted out and on duty."
The following morning, with his shift over, Alexander clocks off and makes his way home: it had been a quiet night, but that was to be expected. As he makes his way home, the wolf goes over the shift pattern he has been assigned. It's gonna take a while to get used to this… but then I am being paid more than I was as a construction worker. OK, the work is a little on the dull side, but that's not necessarily a bad thing.
Arriving at home, he finds his father having breakfast in the kitchen.
"Morning son," Gabriel greets. "How was your first day?"
"Decent, if a bit dull," Alexander answers.
"About the same as being in the Army then," Gabriel smiles.
Alexander considers that for a moment. "I guess so," he agrees. "After all, the three kingdoms are at peace: there's not much for the Army to actually do."
"It's a somewhat uneasy peace," Gabriel reminds. "But otherwise, you're right. Still, best not let that get us down, eh? We've got to stay focussed: after all, you never know when it'll get interesting."