Chapter 0401

The morning of our departure for Luna's Challenge arrives. We load up four SUVs—one owned by our pack, the other three rented in the city. Victor and I pooled our resources, but funds were tight.

The drive to northern Nebraska would take twelve hours nonstop. The Council had secured a state park, paying handsomely to keep humans away. With nearly 300 packs converging, secrecy was crucial. The central location minimized travel for most.

The journey dragged. To pass time, Victor and I practiced our mind-linking abilities with the pack. Distance weakened the connection, frustrating several members as we accidentally invaded their thoughts. By midday, the link snapped entirely.

We arrived at dusk. Check-in revealed all 298 packs were expected—nearly 5,100 warriors competing. That didn't include mates or pups spectating. Our pack brought Felicity, Amber and Leopold's baby. Evelyn carried Finnian, who insisted on accompanying baby Ivy. Sebastian and Seraphina brought Julian, while Nathaniel's human mate Genevieve volunteered to watch the children during battles.

Registration showed tomorrow's schedule would be brutal—3,300 warriors competing. Our pack fielded sixteen.

Evelyn, Adrian, and their pack arrived during sign-ups. Spotting Ivy, I immediately stole her from Evelyn's arms. Victor and I had discussed trying for a pup after the tournament, and holding her made my womb ache. Both my Guardian sisters had newborns recently, sharpening my longing.

Ivy studied me with Adrian's piercing blue eyes and Evelyn's chestnut curls. When her tiny hand patted my cheek, I kissed it—prompting fussy whimpers.

Evelyn sighed. "She's a daddy's girl. Has been since birth."

Adrian materialized, brushing Ivy's forehead with his lips. Instant calm.

"Must be frustrating," I remarked, marveling at his effortless soothing.

Evelyn laughed. "Actually? Lifesaver at 3 AM when only Daddy will do."

Adrian cradled Ivy against his chest. "Daddy doesn't mind, do I, princess?"

The domestic scene stabbed my heart. I blinked back sudden tears, forcing composure. "Where's your pack stationed?"

Evelyn checked her map. "Here."

"Close to us. How many warriors tomorrow?"

"Fourteen. Sebastian's bringing sixteen. You?"

"Sixteen, but none on day two. Without a Lead Warrior, we left Donovan and Seraphina in charge." I lowered my voice. "We've treated several injured from problematic packs. Can't wait to meet their Alphas in the arena."