Chapter 0400

Two days before our departure, I spot Theodore entering the dining hall with Elara nestled against his neck. It's his first appearance outside his quarters since the hunters' attack. Elara's glow has returned, though her wing may never fully heal.

"Isolde, you and Elara should join us," Seraphina suggests, gesturing to the empty seats beside us.

Theodore murmurs something to Elara, who nods before they approach.

"How are you feeling, Elara?" Seraphina asks as they settle. Theodore adjusts her to perch on his shoulder like a tiny bird—except she's sitting, her head barely reaching his jawline.

"Much better, Lady Luna Seraphina. Theodore has been so kind." She nuzzles his cheek. He presses a gentle kiss to her forehead before tensing.

"Alpha Victor, Luna Seraphina... As Elara is my mate, we wanted your permission for her to stay in the pack."

My brows knit together. "Why wouldn't she be welcome?"

Theodore glances between us, confused. "Because she's not a wolf."

"And?" I counter.

Seraphina answers, her gaze on Elara. "I am the Guardian of the Realm, am I not?"

"Yes, Lady Luna."

"What kind of Guardian would I be if I turned away those under my protection?"

Elara beams, and Theodore's shoulders relax.

"Do you truly wish to stay with us?" I ask. "I thought sprites feared werewolves."

She rubs her cheek against Theodore's stubble. "He promised we'd take it slow—starting with dinner tonight. He says wolves thrive in packs, so he'll help me adjust to being around his friends."

"That sounds perfect."

As Theodore rises to join his warriors, he adds, "Oh, Luna—Elara and all sprites are vegetarian. Will that be an issue?"

"Not at all. Just inform Rosalind in the kitchens, though I doubt her appetite will strain our supplies."

Later, as we prepare for bed, Seraphina's anxiety thrums through our bond. I embrace her from behind, lips brushing her shoulder. "What's troubling you, love? This nervousness isn't like you."

She exhales shakily, leaning into me. "We leave tomorrow. In days, I might face my father. The closer it gets... the more terrified I become."

I turn her to face me, arms locked around her waist. "Tell me what frightens you. He can't harm you—you're stronger now, and I'll kill him before he lays a finger on you. What's the real fear?"

Trembling lips. Glittering tears. "What if he makes me feel like that worthless girl again?"

Cradling her face, I say, "You are Seraphina Blackwood. Guardian of the Realm. Luna of Sanctuary Pack. My mate. There is no weakness in you. HE was the failure—as a father, as an Alpha. You're not that child anymore. You're a storm wrapped in skin." I crush her against my chest.

"Truthfully? I hope we do encounter him."

She jerks back. "Why?"

"Because I want him to see what his arrogance cost him. Don't mistake me—I'm grateful he never recognized your power. He'd have chained you to some brute to strengthen his pack. Instead, he discarded you. Forgot you and your mother. And look what he lost." My thumb traces her jaw. "He lost the most extraordinary woman I've ever known."