Chapter 0380

I find Isolde already packed our luggage when I enter our room. These small thoughtful gestures from my mate never fail to warm my heart. With our hectic schedules, we cherish these quiet acts of love—like folding each other's clothes or preparing travel bags.

I've prepared a surprise for her too. Using my saved earnings, I bought proper training gear. She's been making do with old shorts and tees, but Guardian training demands more durable attire. I tuck the freshly laundered outfits (courtesy of Aurora) into her duffel, along with some new clothes for myself.

Victor and our pack have been generous—providing ceremonial knives, chalices, and formal wear for our initiation. But it's time we stand on our own paws financially.

Just as I'm zipping my bag, Isolde slips her arms around my waist from behind. "All set?" Her breath tickles my neck.

"Thanks to my incredibly thoughtful mate." I spin her into my embrace. "How are you feeling about Oberon's visit?"

She nuzzles my shoulder. "A bit nervous, but Seraphina and Evelyn seem to trust him. Aurora remembers fragments from Evander's memories—something about strength trials. If he can help unlock more Guardian potential, it'll be worth it."

We grab our bags and head downstairs for farewells before shifting for the two-hour run to Adrian's territory. Sebastian and Beatrice meet us at the border, escorting us to the packhouse.

Evelyn's noticeably larger belly surprises me—she's due in a month. "Afternoon," she greets from her armchair. "Seraphina and Sebastian just arrived. You're in your usual room. Oberon and Finnian will be here by dinner."

After settling in, we join the group on the patio. The women immediately dive into planning next weekend's mate gathering at Nightshade Pack.

"How many should we expect?" Seraphina asks.

Isolde glances at me. "Around fifty?"

Seraphina's brow furrows. "Only fifty? I thought you had over a hundred unmated wolves."

"We do," I explain. "Some prefer finishing their homes first. The omegas also wanted confirmation they're welcome."

"Of course they are!" Seraphina exclaims. "Mate gatherings are for everyone, regardless of rank."

Evelyn rubs her stomach. "Adrian's bringing about seventy-five. With your fifty, that's—"

"Two hundred potential matches," Seraphina finishes with a grin. "Excellent odds."

Adrian suddenly stands. "They're here." His nostrils flare. "Oberon and Finnian have arrived."