Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 293

Xena's POV

I'm going to start preparing dinner," Penelope said.

Logan said. "I'll help you." He and Penelope headed out the door together, and I watched them go with a sense of

contentment.

Ryder's expression remained grim and troubled, but he managed a small nod. "I know. I just..." He ran his hands through his hair, frustration and pain written across every line of his face.

Suddenly he seemed to remember something, taking my hand and leading me out of the pack house. Logan and Penelope followed close behind us.

Outside, the entire area was filled with our warriors and their mates. Couples were embracing, holding each other tight, savoring the sweetness of reunion after battle.

"MEN!" Ryder suddenly bellowed in a voice so loud and angry that it cut through all the celebration like a blade.

I immediately felt confused and alarmed. Ryder's anger made the air itself feel

tense and dangerous. Every person holding their mate released them and formed a line. All the women stepped back, looking confused at what was happening. I was equally confused, so I moved to stand at the top of the stairs. Ryder crossed his arms and walked to the front of the assembled warriors.

speak: "Luna Xena. Due to our negligence, we were captured. This led to our fellow warriors being killed. This led to you having to

bruises on these warriors' faces, I had initially thought they were from battle, but now I realized differently. These bruises might be "lessons" that Ryder had given

whatever punishment you deem appropriate. We are deeply sorry. Your bravery not only killed Tatum and Wiley but saved many people from a terrible fate,"

quiet. Even the children made no

emotions surge through me. On one hand, I understood their guilt and self-blame; on the other hand, I also knew that in war, failure was inevitable. But as a leader,

mind link.

I slowly walked down the steps to stand in front of

now I want to celebrate our victory. I want everyone ited as one. We've lost so many lives, but so many people have gained new life. Tonight we eat, we hold our loved ones. orrow we find our new

warriors went from looking tense to relaxed,

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Chapter 293

out before turning to look at

Ryder understood the hint and bent down to kiss me His hands caressed my face,

the strongest person

his neck, and his hands

know you don't regret them." Ryder frowned at me. "You're both infuriating

a gift,"

can't eat without you," Penelope called from the pack house

and we walked hand in hand