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.

stepped forward. In a very military fashion, he began to speak: "Luna Xena. Due to our negligence, we were captured. This led to our fellow warriors being killed. This led to you having to allow yourself to be kidnapped again to

at the bruises on these warriors' faces, I had initially thought they were from battle, but

full responsibility for our actions and will accept whatever punishment you deem appropriate. We are deeply sorry. Your bravery not only killed Tatum and Wiley

quiet. Even the children

I understood their guilt and self-blame; on the other hand, I also knew that in war, failure was inevitable. But as a leader, I needed to find a balance

link. I can decide their

I slowly walked down the steps to stand in front

punishment would be. After a pause, I continued: "...but not tonight/Right 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 normal. There

tense to relaxed,

1/2

Chapter 293

before turning to look at

myself." I reached out and tugged on his shirt. Ryder understood the hint and bent down to

the strongest person I

neck, and his hands

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

a gift,"

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

shouted. Ryder released me, and we walked hand in hand toward