Alpha's STOLEN Mate (by Abigail Hayes) novel Chapter 192

Chapter 192

Elowen

Before we could enter the war room for the strategy meeting, Evelyn found us.

She appeared from around a corner, her red hair wild as always, but her expression was subdued. The moment she saw Scarlett and me,

she rushed forward and pulled us both into a tight embrace.

“I’m so sorry,” she whispered. “About the pack. About not being there. I-

“Oh, I heard you’ve been having quite the time here,” Scarlett interrupted, pulling back from the hug with an edge to her voice. She

crossed her arms. “Eating well, sleeping in comfortable beds, and apparently you found yourself a man? I don’t know if he’s been helping

you read books or… doing other things with you.” Her eyes narrowed. “But either way, you’ve been living pretty carefree, haven’t you?”

Evelyn opened her mouth to respond, then closed it. Her usual sharp retort died on her lips. She just stood there, pouting slightly, unable

to meet Scarlett’s eyes.

She actually feels guilty. That’s… new.

“Well, I said, stepping between them, “she’s been helping Faelan research countermeasures against Morgath. I’d say that’s contributing

plenty to our cause.”

Scarlett looked at Evelyn’s uncharacteristically remorseful face and her expression softened. ‘Come on, I’m just messing with you. Honestly? What could you have done if you were there? You’re a witch-those transformed wolves would have torn you apart.” She reached out and squeezed Evelyn’s shoulder. “I’m actually glad you weren’t there. At least you’re alive.”

Evelyn’s face broke into a genuine smile. “Scarlett! But seriously-when I heard you’d been injured, I was terrified. So, out of a burning desire for revenge on your behalf- She straightened, trying to look brave. “I’ve decided to join this mission to the witch’s lair!”

Both Scarlett and I stared at her in shock.

Before we could respond, Frost appeared in the doorway. “Everyone? The Alpha King is ready. Please come to the council chamber.”

When we entered, Kaius and Faelan were already waiting. The round table had been cleared except for several rolled maps and documents. We took our seats, and Kaius wasted no time getting to business.

He unrolled a large map, spreading it across the table, “Everyone see this red mark here?”

My eyes found the indicated spot, and recognition hit me immediately. “That’s-

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Chapter 192

“Yes,” Kaius confirmed. “The location of that mysterious cave system. Faelan’s research indicates the Flesh-Weavers’ ancestral lair is

accessible through these tunnels. To reach it, we must pass through the cave entrance.”

He looked directly at Evelyn. “Which is why we need you on this mission. You’re our expert on magical barriers and wards. Without you,

we won’t be able to access the lair at all.”

Evelyn pressed her palms against her face. “Oh God. You’re really going to make me do this?”

“Didn’t you just volunteer?” Scarlett pointed out with a smirk. “Something about revenge on my behalf?”

“And you’ve been dying to meet your ‘idol’ Morgath,” I added, grinning. “Now’s your chance.”

Evelyn turned pleading eyes to Faelan, clearly hoping he’d offer her an escape.

Faelan just scratched his head sheepishly. “Evelyn, I’m afraid the success of this entire operation really does depend on you. Your ability

to break wards, your knowledge of witch magic, your understanding of—”

“Fuck!” Evelyn interrupted, slumping in her chair dramatically. “Fine. FINE. I’m about to do the most reckless thing I’ve ever done in my

entire life.”

“Don’t worry,” I said cheerfully. “If things go wrong, you have my permission to run away first.”

Kaius continued once that was settled. He pulled out another, more detailed map. “This is what Faelan managed to reconstruct of the lair’s interior layout. Once you’re inside, you’ll need to move quietly. Locate the gemstone that powers their dark magic and destroy it.”

He traced a route with his finger. “Without that gemstone, their magical enhancements will fade rapidly. The transformed wolves will revert. Morgath’s power will diminish. She’ll no longer be the threat she is now.”

“Simple enough,” I said, studying the map. “Get in, destroy the stone, get out.”

“Simple in theory,” Kaius corrected. “But the lair will likely have defenses. Possibly guards, You’ll need to be strategic.”

Frost leaned forward. “When do we leave, Alpha King?”

“No, Frost.” Kaius’s voice was firm. “You, Scarlett, and Faelan stay behind. With both packs now consolidated in one location, we’re an obvious target. My father warned me that Morgath is accelerating her timeline-she could strike at any moment.”

Frost’s expression showed he understood the weight of the responsibility, though disappointment flickered across his face. He nodded

solemnly.

Scarlett, however, couldn’t hide her frustration. “Alpha King! With respect-I should be protecting MY Alpha! And my- She glanced at

Evelyn. “And our witch!”

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Alpha’s STOLEN Mate