Aurelia,
Welcome home. I am glad to hear that your ambitions have not withered over the past year. The tasks for Mercenary are much the same as they once were, with a slight alteration. You should also know that you are not the only wolf who covets this position. Arthfael, too, works towards this same goal.
Tasks:
1. As Mercenary, you are partly responsible for making sure those of Spirane are worthy of the pack. Seek out a member from among the Crones, Liege, Seneschals, Stewards, or Apprentices (who is not ^pending promotion) and get to know them. Afterwards, come see me and advise me on whether you think they should remain in the pack and why, and also offer a suggestion for a future rank that might suit their skills or personality.
(You may select 2a or 2b to complete, you do not need to do both)
2a. To prove your capability to ward off invaders or enemies, choose a wolf of the pack to spar with. This can be whomever you would like, but preferably someone you feel can challenge you.
2b. To prove your capability to identify wolves worthy of the pack of Spirane, steal one wolf from the freelands that you think would make a good addition to the pack. They will be kept captive for only one week and then will be allowed to decide to stay or go.