Chapter 0271

Penelope turned to Seraphina. "Should we seek the Alpha's approval for this?"

Seraphina's gaze flicked to Sebastian. "I don't believe that's necessary." She addressed Penelope. "I've appointed you as Lead Omega for the kitchens, and I'll be hiring another Lead for packhouse maintenance."

I could see the silent plea in Seraphina's eyes. Truthfully, I was relieved to delegate these responsibilities. "Perfect. Penelope, you've clearly demonstrated your capability to manage the kitchens to your Luna. Congratulations," I said.

"Indeed, congratulations," Nathaniel added beside me.

"Thank you," Penelope murmured before excusing herself.

I met Seraphina's eyes. "Ready for combat training?"

She nodded. "But first, let's stop by the Luna's office. I want to check if it's prepared so Nathaniel can have his workspace back tomorrow."

"You're welcome to use my office as long as required, Luna," Nathaniel assured her as Genevieve joined our group.

Seraphina arched a brow at the newcomer. "Genevieve will be training with us from now on," I explained, sliding an arm around Seraphina's waist as we moved toward the stairs. "She's learning weaponry."

Seraphina glanced over her shoulder with an encouraging smile. "That's excellent! I know you'll excel at this."

We divided the warriors for training—Gregory, Evelyn, and Seraphina worked together while Donovan and I drilled the combat units. Our superior speed forced the others to adapt their fighting strategies. Donovan and Tristan circulated, offering critiques, while Nathaniel began instructing Genevieve in knife-throwing techniques.

Tristan and Sebastian, our top warriors, arrived last, energy crackling around them. Their passion for combat was matched only by their skill—the very reason Donovan and I had promoted them. We sparred with our own warriors first, then switched opponents to increase the challenge.

Post-training, we found Nathaniel had already progressed Genevieve to hitting tree-mounted targets.

"Nathaniel." I summoned him. "Let's upgrade her to a live target."

Seraphina materialized at my side instantly. "Sebastian?"

I cupped her face. "She needs to experience aiming at something that moves. If she can't throw at a person, she won't be able to defend herself or the pack."

Her eyes clouded with concern until I reminded her, "You gifted me remarkable healing abilities, remember? I'll be fine."

"Nathaniel, bring Genevieve. We'll take this gradually."

I stripped and shifted, waiting as Genevieve approached with visible trepidation.

"What's happening?" Genevieve asked, fingers twisting together.

Nathaniel steadied her. "The Alpha wants you to practice on a moving target—specifically, him."

Her head shook violently. "Absolutely not! I won't endanger someone who's shown me nothing but kindness."

Nathaniel captured her trembling hands. "Sweetheart, you won't always be throwing at stationary objects. Sebastian and Dorian were formidable even before bonding with Seraphina. Now? They're nearly invincible. Dorian's reflexes are exceptional—if you actually graze him, I'll eat my boots."

A ring of warriors formed around us—standard procedure, but undoubtedly intimidating for a novice. This simulated real combat conditions: distractions, pressure, adrenaline.

Nathaniel positioned her stance. As I feinted forward, Genevieve's knife flashed through the air.