Chapter 0337

"What about warrior training?" I demand.

Leopold exhales sharply. "That's been complicated. Most refuse to train under me since I lack a wolf. A few warriors volunteered to lead, but their methods are sloppy compared to yours. Worse, they're the same ones eyeing your Alpha position—they think running training gives them authority."

I freeze mid-step. "You've been completely excluded from warrior training?" This makes no sense. Leopold was raised as an Alpha heir—his expertise is unmatched, wolf or no wolf.

"I train the she-wolves and pups," he admits bitterly. "The Lead Warriors banned females from regular sessions."

The fading sunlight paints the trees gold as we turn toward the packhouse. "Tomorrow, I want patrol schedules reviewed. Once this Alpha challenge nonsense is settled, you and I are taking over training."

Isolde arches a brow. "What about the women?"

A grin tugs at my lips. "I'd pay to watch those she-wolves destroy the warriors. If Leopold's right about their poor skills, his trainees will humiliate them."

Leopold's smirk is downright predatory. "Oh, they will."

The kitchen is understaffed when we arrive, with only a handful scrambling to feed the entire pack.

"Why so few workers?" Isolde asks.

"I haven't had time to hire more," Leopold admits, rubbing his temples. "Between construction, new families arriving, and constant challenges to Victor's authority, it's all I can do to keep this pack from collapsing."

I grip his shoulder. "You've held this pack together single-handedly. But you're not alone anymore."

The relief in his eyes is palpable. "Having you both here... it changes everything."

"I'll handle kitchen staffing tomorrow while you two review patrols," Isolde offers.

We grab plates of food—portions too small for werewolf metabolisms, but better than nothing. As we eat, I study the room. Most seem genuinely pleased at my return, but several clusters glare openly.

Time to end this.

My chair scrapes back as I stand. The room falls silent. "For those who don't know me—I'm Alpha Victor. This is my pack. My Beta informs me some believe they'd make better Alphas." My gaze sweeps the dissenters. "Challenges begin the day after tomorrow. See Beta Leopold to schedule yours."

I emphasize his title deliberately. Some need reminding of his rank.

"What if we win?" a voice calls from the back.

"Standard rules apply—the victor takes the pack."

"Submission or death?" another shouts.

"That's the challenger's choice. I prefer not to kill packmates, but if death is demanded, I'll oblige."

Someone sneers, "What about your Guardian?"

"My mate," I snap, "won't interfere."

After fielding more questions, I finish eating. When Isolde sets down her fork, I take her hand and lead her out.

Tonight, we complete our bond.