Chapter 0416

The journey home stretches endlessly, each mile heavier with the weight of the tournament's violent conclusion.

Relief floods me as Isolde regains her strength, with Seraphina and Evelyn confirming their recovery too. At least this burden lifts from my shoulders. Most of our injured warriors have healed overnight. Those still suffering will see Seraphina upon our return. I update Donovan briefly—just enough to assure him we're unharmed and heading back. The pack remains secure, which eases some tension.

Isolde senses my unease and rests her head against my chest. Our bond hums with her exhaustion. Though improved, yesterday's power surge lingers in her bones. I'm not sure what to call that explosive display of energy, but it left its mark. As she leans into me, I tighten my hold, adjusting so she can sleep. My own eyes drift shut.

Back at Blackthorn territory, I summon the ranked members—including Gideon, our newly appointed Lead Warrior—and dismiss Seraphina to tend to the wounded. After Donovan congratulates Gideon, we dive into grim realities.

"You all witnessed the hunter ambush at the tournament." My voice cuts through the room. "Isolde estimates over a thousand attacked us. But we know that's merely a fraction of their numbers nationwide. Adrian, Sebastian, and I discussed it. The Guardians are now targets. Those hunters who escaped will report what they saw. They'll come for them."

"No one touches our Luna." Leopold's growl echoes the room's defiance.

"Damn right they won't." My knuckles whiten. "But safety requires action. Border patrols will double. I'll speak with our Sylvan Fae allies—request daily updates on any threats."

Donovan clears his throat. "About that... you'll want to meet with Alistair at dawn."

I frown. "Why?"

"Are the Fae causing problems?" Isolde tenses beside me.

"Let's just say their situation has... evolved." Donovan shrugs. "Alistair will explain better."

"Fine. Next issue—our Luna has challenged her father for Laurel River Pack. Victory is certain, meaning we'll soon integrate a large number of wolves."

The room erupts in murmurs.

Lillian voices the obvious concern. "Where will we house them all?"

"I've consulted the elders." Isolde steps forward. "We're acquiring the land bridging our territory to Adrian and Sebastian's packs. This creates a unified border, with the canyon becoming shared grounds for gatherings."

Gideon rubs his jaw. "We can temporarily lodge them in the packhouse and volunteer homes. Construction moves fast—they'll have houses within months."

Donovan raises an eyebrow. "And the land cost?"

"The terrain makes it cheap," I explain. "But the elders proposed a trade: Grace's father's territory for this land. They gain fertile soil; we gain strategic space."

Leopold crosses his arms. "Luna, some wolves won't follow a female Alpha. How do we handle dissenters?"

Isolde's gaze hardens. "Intel from my father's Gamma suggests the pack is discontent. Most will welcome change."

I add coldly, "Those who refuse can go rogue or beg another pack's mercy."

"We'll announce everything tomorrow night." I dismiss the meeting. "Prepare for upheaval."

As we exit, Donovan smirks. "So technically, you'll both be Alphas now."

I pull Isolde against me, my hand possessive on her waist. "We already are."