Chapter 74

**Pack’s Approval**

*Luna’s POV*

The moon shone down on the assembled wolves, illuminating the night sky, which was painted in shades of deep blue and silver. As both groups stood together for the first time, not as competitors but as one, the air hummed with excitement and cautious optimism.

Kai's pack and mine officially became one tonight. The result of all the things we had battled for.

As if witnessing this historic event, a huge bonfire raged in the middle of the clearing, its flames crackling and soaring into the sky. As the invisible walls of old grudges vanished, if only for the night, wolves of all ranks—warriors, elders, and omegas—stood side by side.

My pulse was deep but constant, and I could feel the weight of everything pushing against my ribs. This was the accepting moment. Of being fully accepted by those who had before questioned me as well as by my own.

With his golden eyes flashing with something unreadable, Kai stood next to me, his presence firm. I could see the pride in his posture as he gazed out at the wolves that had previously been reluctant to trust me. He had battled to unite our packs and to heal the division.

I let out a slow breath. The moment has come.

Kai was the first to speak, his powerful voice piercing the darkness. We celebrate more than just a pack merger tonight. We value resiliency. We value trust. He took a moment to look around at the assembled wolves. "And we pay tribute to the mate bond that brought us to this point."

The audience echoed with a murmur.

I moved forward next to him, taking a big breath before I spoke. "I was a stranger when I first arrived here. I was questioned by several of you. Some people still do. I glanced at a few of doubtful looks and then went on. However, I have pledged my allegiance to you. Alongside you, I have battled. And I'll keep doing it.

The wolves bowed their heads in a respectful gesture after a period of silence.

In my chest, an odd feeling blossomed.

Then the howls started in unison. One voice at a time, followed by another, then another, until the eerie, lovely sound of our oneness filled the whole clearing.

The festivities became serious.

Wolves transformed into humans, and the solemn atmosphere was replaced by chatter and laughing. The aromas of freshly baked bread and roasted meats filled the air as the food was brought out. Warriors raised a toast to upcoming conflicts as the pack elders gathered in a circle and shared tales.

Before he spoke, I sensed Kai's presence behind me. "You performed well."

I looked up at him, looking into his face. "You think that now they'll actually accept me?"

"They have already done so." His eyes became softer. "However, I believe you still have to come to terms with it."

A familiar voice broke through the throng before I could reply.

"Well, well, well. What a sight.

My whole body froze.

I turned, gasping as I looked into Alpha Inna's piercing, perceptive eyes.

I should have seen he wouldn't just go.

As everyone turned to see him, the audience became silent. Others just observed, cautious, while others snarled at his presence.

Kai's face became serious. "You weren't asked."

Inna grinned naturally. "But here I am nonetheless." His eyes shifted to mine, a careful, thoughtful examination that made me shiver. "I couldn't possibly miss this... important event."

My heart pounded. He wasn't only observing. He had a motive. A purpose.

Kai took a step forward, shoulders squared. "Inna, take care of yourself before I take you away."

Inna shook his head and laughed. Kai, you're always so combative. I didn't come to fight, though. His eyes glinted with amusement as he lowered his voice. "Anyway, not yet."

The crowd fell silent.

It was an obvious warning.

This night was meant for unity, for celebration. However, Inna had just covered it with the first shadow.

I raised my chin and clinched my hands at my sides. Why *are* you here, then?

He looked at me for a long time before responding.

"To serve as a reminder that war never waits for festivities to conclude."

He then pivoted on his heel and vanished into the night, leaving only the weight of his words hanging in the atmosphere.

Though the night no longer seemed as brilliant, the party

continued.

Because I knew.

The true battle was just beginning.