Chapter 0429

The week following the gathering of mates flew by in a blur of activity. Our pack worked tirelessly while preparing to host King Oberon and Prince Finnian for the upcoming training session. Several disciplinary issues arose that required either my or Isolde's intervention. Some members had foolishly assumed we wouldn't enforce consequences for their aggressive behavior toward fellow packmates.

Fortunately, the holding cells stood freshly cleaned and ready. Those who tested our patience soon found themselves locked inside for a night of reflection - contemplating whether they truly wished to remain part of this pack.

Isolde organized teams of newer members to restock and prepare the underground bunkers. With our growing numbers - particularly the omegas who wouldn't participate in combat - we needed every available shelter space in case of another hunter attack.

Sebastian and Adrian gathered disturbing intelligence from various supernatural sources. The hunters' activities had escalated - abducting supernaturals for experimentation or execution. Alistair currently led a reconnaissance team attempting to locate hunter compounds. We'd hoped their defeat at Luna's Challenge would force retreat, but they'd simply shifted targets to other supernatural communities.

The Sylvan Fae maintained vigilant patrols through our expanded territory. Their numbers had grown since several found mates within Blackthorn and Nightshade packs, allowing their watch to extend across all three territories seamlessly.

For Oberon and Finnian's visit, Isolde arranged a special vegetarian feast. Like the fae, elves revered all forest life and abstained from consuming woodland creatures. Out of respect, we'd removed all venison and rabbit dishes from the menu during their stay.

At noon on their arrival day, Adrian, Evelyn, Sebastian and Seraphina joined us for lunch. The nursery construction had finished just in time, allowing us to leave the children in capable hands while we ate.

Sebastian wasted no time addressing concerns. "Last training was limited with both Evelyn and Seraphina pregnant." He kissed his mate's temple. "Now with Seraphina expecting again, and after witnessing the power surge during the tournament... I'm uncomfortable practicing energy transfers as planned. Not with Seraphina involved. I won't risk her or our child."

"Let's hear Oberon's training plan first," Seraphina suggested. "He may have alternative methods. If not, I can channel power outward instead of having Evelyn or Isolde pull it. That way I control the flow."

"And I can practice with Isolde," Evelyn added. "She's already drawn my power instinctively. With Oberon's guidance, she'll learn to regulate the intake."

"We'll proceed carefully," Isolde assured everyone. "Frequent breaks if necessary."

After lunch, we gathered in the shaded backyard while nursery staff brought the children out to play.

"The pack's transformation is remarkable," Adrian remarked as we watched our mates playing with the little ones.

"Still work ahead," I acknowledged, "but we're getting there. I've drafted expansion plans for the new territory. Several members have requested homesites and proposed a second marketplace closer to that area." I turned to Sebastian. "Donovan's been invaluable, by the way. His construction expertise and innovative planning have been game-changers for our development."

"He's among my best," Sebastian agreed. "I'd like to offer positions to some of your skilled members if you're amenable."

Our discussion about pack expansion continued until movement at the tree line caught our attention. Oberon and Finnian emerged on foot, as always. Their method of travel remained one of the fae's many mysteries.