Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

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.

One of the 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 save us from the same fate."

Looking at the 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 them.

"We take 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 but saved many people from a terrible fate," another warrior said.

Everyone was quiet. Even the children made no sound.

Watching these warriors' apologies, I felt complex 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, I needed to find a balance between mercy and discipline.

Ryder looked at me through our mind link. I can decide their punishment if you'd like."

Taking a deep breath, I slowly walked down the steps to stand in front of the warriors.

"Everyone will be punished..." I began. Some of them blinked, waiting to hear what that 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 will be many changes. Actions speak louder than words, and we are watching."

The warriors went from looking tense to relaxed, and some even showed slight smiles.

"Dismissed," Ryder called out before turning to look at me. "I'm sorry I couldn't come rescue you."

"It's okay. I rescued myself." I reached out and tugged on his shirt. Ryder understood the hint and bent down to kiss me His hands caressed my face, gently touching my split lip.

"You're the strongest person I know," Ryder sighed.

I wrapped my right arm around his neck, and his hands encircled my waist. 'I don't regret my decisions."

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

"It's really a gift," I laughed.

"Xena? Ryder? We can't eat without you," Penelope called from the pack house doorway.

"Coming!" I shouted. Ryder released me, and we walked hand in hand toward the house.

Everyone was seated at tables, with a beautiful array of food arranged along the far wall. When we sat down, Ryder remained standing.

"A few quick announcements before we begin. First, my pack members, welcome back to your homes. Everyone from Darkthorn Pack will stay here tonight, and tomorrow there will be instructions about the way forward. There's a lot of sensitive information to sort through before making any announcements. I want to thank Nightcedar Pack for the warmth and kindness they've shown over the past few days."

The entire room erupted in applause. Penelope blushed, and Logan just raised his hand while smiling.

Watching all this, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction. Ryder and I smiled at each other.

After Ryder finished speaking and sat down, Penelope stood up. “Each table has

a number. This is the order you'll go get your food."noveldrama

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