The Human Girl Who Tamed Alpha King Chapter 78

JACE

The dinner that evening felt surreal. Wolves from every pack approached our table, offering words of sympathy for Caleb. Each conversation felt like a distraction from the real threat hanging over us.

hadn't left Aria's side since witnessing what happened to Caleb. Phantom wouldn't allow it. Every instinct demanded I keep her within reach, within protection range.

*I can handle myself,* she sent through our bond, clearly sensing my overprotectiveness.

*I know,* I replied immediately. *But I need to be near you right now. For my own sanity.*

She understood. The bond between us carried her acceptance, though I could feel her restlessness.

Our quiet dinner was interrupted when Alpha Dylan approached our table, his expression somber.

"Alpha Jace. Luna Aria." He inclined his head respectfully. "I heard about your guardian. I apologize for not coming sooner, but as you might imagine, I've been somewhat distracted."

Aria offered him a small smile. "Alpha Dylan. The title suits you."

He laughed quietly. "Still feels strange. I keep looking around for my father when someone says it."

"The power takes some getting used to," I said, remembering my own early days as Alpha. "When I first became Alpha, I broke three doors before I learned to control my strength."

Dylan's shoulders relaxed slightly at my attempt at normalcy.

"I hope we can maintain the connection we've built," Dylan said, looking at Aria. "Despite everything that's happened, I still consider you family, Aria."

"As do I," she answered honestly.

I nodded, extending my hand. "Aria and her family owe you much, Dylan. So do I. And so to family, you and your pack will always be just that." I deliberately avoided using his title, emphasizing the personal connection.

The gesture - an Alpha extending his hand to another as an equal - wasn't lost on those watching. Dylan took my hand without hesitation.

"Black Forest Pack will always stand with you if you need us," Dylan promised.

I motioned for Dylan to join us. "Tell me about the Elder Council. How's the transition of power proceeding?"

Dylan sat, his expression turning serious. "Better than expected. Most were relieved when I claimed the Alpha position. My father had few true allies by the end."

"And Richard himself?" I asked carefully.

"Recovering. Physically at least." Dylan's jaw tightened. "Mentally... he refuses to accept what happened. Keeps insisting he was right all along."

"Some wolves never change their nature," I commented.

Dylan leaned forward, lowering his voice. "Don't let your guard down, Jace. I can't shake the feeling this isn't over."

"We won't," I assured him. "We've doubled our security. Gabriel has our warriors on rotating patrols."

Our conversation continued late into the night, discussing security measures and the combat tournament scheduled for tomorrow. When we finally parted ways, I felt a tentative hope. Having Dylan's pack as allies strengthened our position against whatever threat was coming.

ARIA

Morning came too quickly. I woke to Jace's touch tracing the curve of my shoulder, his warmth comforting against the early chill.

"Morning," I murmured, stretching against him.

"Morning." He kissed me deeply, his hands possessive yet gentle.

We showered quickly before calling Aurora. Our daughter chattered excitedly about her day with her teacher. Even through the screen, I could see how much she looked like Jace - that determined jaw, that spark of leadership.

Breakfast was a public affair in the hall. I noticed Jace watching other Alphas, who kept their packs separate even in the communal eating area. He never enforced that tradition.

Gabriel, Lucas, and Eliana joined us without hesitation. They weren't just pack members - they were family. The bonds between us had been forged through shared danger and trust.

"Caleb's awake," Gabriel reported, sliding onto the bench across from us. "Dr. Maya says he managed solid food last night." Dr. Maya came with us too, ready to handle any medical emergencies that might arise and to keep an eye on the baby growing in my belly.

"Alex mentioned the girl they were searching for in the tracking challenge has barely left his side," Lucas added.

My spirits lifted at this news. "That's good. Having someone there who isn't directly connected to the trauma might help."

After breakfast, we headed to the healing center. Dr. Maya met us in the hallway, her medical coat pristine despite the early hour.

"He's awake and alert," she confirmed. "But I'd suggest keeping visits brief."

Alex emerged from Caleb's room, looking exhausted but hopeful. "The girl - Angela - she's been reading to him. He actually focused on her voice for a while."

"We don't want to disturb his progress," Jace said. "Just tell him we checked in and if he needs anything, he can reach me through the mind link."

Alex nodded gratefully, the weight on his shoulders seeming slightly lighter.

The tournament grounds buzzed with activity when we arrived. Gabriel had already gathered our guardians, putting them through warm-up exercises. Their movements were synchronized, powerful - a testament to Gabriel's leadership.

"They look good," Jace observed, pride evident in his voice. "Gabriel's made remarkable progress with them in such a short time."

The guardians noticed our approach, immediately pausing to bow their heads in respect. The gesture still felt strange to me - these warriors acknowledging me as their Luna despite my human status.

Jace stepped forward. "We have had a busy tournament. First, Conner shares a win with his newfound mate. Alex got a good second despite problems with another competitor. And I know you all heard about Caleb. And about him. He is healing physically and mentally. He has a long road ahead. So anyone who knows him well feels more than free to help him. I am sure his family will appreciate that."

The warriors straightened, their focus sharpening as Jace continued.

"We can still win this. But no pressure. This is mostly for enjoyment. Embrace the challenge, take care of yourselves. Whatever happens, I'm proud to have you as my pack."

I stepped forward, adding my support. "Good luck to all of you. Do your best, knowing we believe in you."

Their response was immediate - backs straightening, chests swelling with pride. The power of an Alpha's confidence was tangible, even to my human senses.

Jace led me to the spectator stands, to seats reserved among the other pack leaders. I couldn't hide my excitement about this particular competition.

An hour later, the stands were packed with wolves from every pack. Elder Thorn stepped onto the field, which had been transformed into multiple small combat arenas.