Chapter 0377

Chaos reigns supreme on inauguration day, just as I predicted. The entire packhouse is a whirlwind of activity.

Seraphina Grey and Alpha Alistair arrive shortly after breakfast, bearing formal suits for the men. Clearly, they'd heard about our dresses but knew the boys lacked proper attire. While the pants fit well, Victor's shirt and jacket strained against his muscular frame.

I called Isabella immediately. The talented seamstress found hidden seams to let out, ensuring my mate wouldn't rip through his clothes during the ceremony.

My short hair required minimal styling—just a sleek comb-back that complemented the elegance of my gown.

The back lawn has been transformed. A raised platform stands proudly behind the packhouse, with rows of chairs facing it. The front row remains reserved for Adrian, Evelyn, Sebastian, Angel, and Seraphina. Alistair will join us on stage to officiate.

Victor and I find Leopold, Lillian, Donovan, and Seraphina waiting on the patio. Lillian's teal gown flows to the floor, its delicate spaghetti straps and intricate bodice catching the light. Seraphina wears a muted rose dress with a high neckline and satin waist bow—similar to mine but without the shimmer.

The pack's excited murmurs create an electric atmosphere. Victor turns to me with that infuriatingly smug expression.

"Headcount, Luna?" he challenges, referencing my enhanced Guardian senses.

I inhale deeply. "Two hundred ninety-eight pack members. Six visiting Alphas and Lunas." My smirk matches his.

"What was that about?" Seraphina asks, glancing between us.

"Guardian perks," Victor says before striding toward the gathering.

We process in three pairs: Victor and I lead, followed by Leopold with Lillian, then Donovan and Seraphina bringing up the rear. Silence falls as we approach the stage.

Alistair steps forward. "Ready?" he murmurs.

"Ready," we chorus.

He addresses the crowd, his Alpha power resonating. "Sanctuary Pack, today marks your rebirth. We formalize your hierarchy as your ranked members swear allegiance. Afterward, each of you will pledge loyalty to them and this pack. Does anyone object to joining Sanctuary?"

The silence speaks volumes.

Alistair turns to Victor. "Then we begin."

"Alpha Victor, step forward. Do you swear by the Moon Goddess's power to love, defend, and sacrifice for your pack?"

Victor faces our people. "I, Alpha Victor Blackwood, so swear."

Alistair slices Victor's palm, letting his blood drip into a ceremonial chalice—far grander than anything we'd prepared.

When the ritual concludes, Victor takes my hand. As Alpha, he'll oversee the remaining oaths.

"Luna Isolde," he commands.

I step forward, our joined hands stained with his blood.

"Do you, Isolde Blackwood, swear by the Moon Goddess to cherish and protect this pack, even unto death?"