The Apocalyptic Queen's Werewolf Journey (Thora and Darius) novel Chapter 23

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**Shadows Hearts by Joseph King**
**Chapter 23: A Special Operations Unit**

**Darius’s POV:**

Despite Oliver’s relentless teasing yesterday, I managed to extract a few pearls of wisdom from our banter. If winning Thora’s heart directly was off the table for the moment, my next best strategy was to charm those closest to her.

In Thora’s life, that meant her grandfather, Marlon.

Marlon had been a stalwart leader, bravely leading the army against invaders until he sustained serious injuries. For the past six months, he had been recuperating at the most prestigious rehabilitation center in the imperial capital, surrounded by the best care available.

I had already made plans to visit him today, but before that, there was another important meeting I needed to attend…

In a secure conference room deep within the Military Command Center, I took a sip of my steaming coffee, my gaze fixed on the striking figure seated across from me.

His name was Hugo Stanton, and he appeared to be no older than twenty-five. The general’s insignia gleamed on his deep blue uniform, a testament to his rank and the respect he commanded.

Setting my cup down, I allowed a smile to break through. “I never imagined that my first encounter with the youngest general in the Astralis Empire would take place in such a formal setting.”

“Mr. Blackwood, you do me too much honor,” Hugo replied, his smile unwavering, radiating the kind of determination that only a military upbringing could instill.

“My father and great-uncle had a conversation with me yesterday,” I continued, keeping my tone light. “They were quite impressed by your proposal presented in parliament and instructed me to extend our full support.”

My great-uncle, the Lycan King of the Astralis Empire, held considerable influence, and I knew that his endorsement carried weight.

Hugo stood up sharply, executing a formal military salute. “Thank you very much, sir!”

“There’s no need for such formality,” I reassured him, waving my hand dismissively. “But I suspect you called me here for something significant?”

He immediately straightened his posture, the seriousness of the moment settling over him. “Indeed, Mr. Blackwood. You’re likely familiar with the Blue Star Military Academy. It stands as the premier werewolf military academy in the world, yet candidates from the Astralis Empire constitute a mere 0.3 percent of those admitted each year.”