Page 14

Seren

Draken stood before his warriors as the early morning mist curled around them.

The journey ahead would be long, and though his instincts rebelled against leaving his friends behind, home beckoned like a warm blanket on a wintery night.

He was eager to return to Astrid, to see his mate again, but a part of him felt the weight of leaving his warriors behind.

They had fought beside him, bled beside him.

Now, they would stay and hold the line without him.

Yet, as he looked at them, he saw no unease—only readiness. Excitement even. They were warriors, and this was just another mission.

"I thank you," he said, his deep voice steady. "For your loyalty, for your strength. It is no small thing to remain when your brothers ride out."

Raik smirked. "That's mighty sentimental, Chief. You're getting soft."

A rumble of laughter followed, easing some of the tension. Draken rolled his eyes, but his lips twitched in amusement.

Boden clapped a hand to his chest. "We'll keep them safe in your absence. No promises about Raik behaving, though."

Draken exhaled sharply, shaking his head. Then his gaze landed on Rheon. The humour faded from his tone. "Guard her with your life."

Rheon's jaw tightened, and he gave a single nod. "I will. "

Just as he turned to leave, a familiar presence caught his attention. Arken and Seren stood nearby, silent witnesses to his departure. Draken hesitated for only a moment before stepping toward them. He had not expected to feel so protective of Seren so quickly, yet here he was.

Without thinking, he placed a firm but brief hand on her shoulder before pulling her into a short hug. "Until we meet again, daughter."

Seren stiffened, her eyes widening in surprise. It took her a moment before she hesitantly hugged him back, the warmth of the gesture lingering even as he stepped away.

Satisfied, Draken turned and walked toward the waiting cars. The remaining warriors filed in behind him, their movements precise and practiced. Engines rumbled to life as the convoy began moving, heading toward the airstrip where the chartered plane awaited them.

Draken leaned back against the seat, inhaling deeply. Soon, he would be home. Soon, he would see Astrid again.

And yet, a part of him would miss this place and the child who would be his daughter.