Balance of Light and Shadow (By Chandrea) novel Chapter 247

**Gloom 247**

**Chapter 247**

**Conrad POV**

Although the war had officially reached its conclusion, the remnants of conflict lingered in the air, casting a long shadow over our lives. The aftermath was a chaotic landscape filled with unresolved battles and the daunting task of cleanup. We had managed to pinpoint several packs that had allied themselves with Malik, their identities revealed through the distinct pack marks they bore. Yet, to our dismay, none of the Alphas had the courage to face us on the battlefield. The cowards had chosen the safety of their homes instead.

They had been stripped of their power, but unfortunately, our efforts came too late for some of them, allowing them to slip through our fingers.

Within the ranks of certain packs, the members had turned on their Alphas with ferocity, tearing them apart in a frenzy of betrayal. Some were now seeking refuge in other packs, while others contemplated the perilous path of going rogue. A few packs had even abandoned the alliance territory, taking their Alphas with them, defiantly refusing to acknowledge the leadership of Lewana and me. It was their choice, and those who chose to stand apart from the alliance always posed a potential threat.

On a brighter note, many new packs had expressed their desire to join us, eager to be part of our growing community. This influx was expanding our royal territory and bringing more frightened wolves under our protective wing. Valerie had played a pivotal role in this endeavor, and for her relentless dedication, I would always be profoundly grateful.

Sorting through this tangled mess would take years, but our immediate priority was to ensure everyone’s safety and prepare for the official Luna Ceremony. During this significant event, we would also announce our Crown Regent Duke and Duchess, marking a new chapter in our reign.

With only five weeks left until the blue moon, the clock was ticking, and soon after, we had to prepare for the arrival of the twins.

Days slipped by in a monotonous cycle, each one a mirror of the last: meetings, reviews, paperwork, notifications, and more. The Luna Ceremony was just a month away, and I was determined to finalize the guest list and send out invitations today. With that in mind, I began my work before the sun had even risen.

Just as I was getting into the groove of things, a knock at the door broke my concentration. “Come in!” I called out, and the door swung open to reveal Lewana, carrying a plate of hot breakfast. The aroma wafting through the air was a welcome change from the bland cereal I had settled for just a few hours earlier.

“Thank you so much, Moonlight,” I said, my mouth watering at the sight of the delicious spread.

She smiled warmly as she set the plate down beside me. “Are you nearly done? We have to leave for the wedding in two hours.”

Panic surged through me as I glanced at the clock. “How is it already 10 AM?” I exclaimed, my heart racing.

A deep sigh escaped my lips. “I’m sorry, Moonlight. I’ve just been completely swamped with everything.”

She reached out, stroking my head gently, and I leaned into her comforting touch, letting the warmth of her presence wash over me. “Don’t worry about it. I’ve been in the same boat. Some of the soldiers sustained serious injuries during the battle, so I’ve been busy treating them. Plus, I need to keep a close eye on the temporary camps housing Malik’s old pack. Their hygiene is appalling, and we need to prevent any outbreaks. Not to mention the ongoing care they require.”

We held each other for a moment, savoring the rare tranquility before the enticing smell of bacon pulled me back to reality.

After finishing my meal, we worked together to finalize the invitation list. It took us an entire hour, but we still had time to prepare for the wedding.

We ascended the stairs, and I dressed in a sharp suit while Lewana slipped into her stunning long lavender dress, complete with a daring slit up the side. The halter top and backless design accentuated her curves and highlighted her beautiful figure.

She raised an eyebrow at me as she caught my gaze in her makeup mirror. “Can you stop that? I can smell you from here,” she teased.

I smirked back at her. “Then stop being so gorgeous, and I might stop getting aroused every time I see you. But really, you look breathtaking. Perhaps we should clear out your wardrobe of anything that isn’t a stunning dress.”

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