The Pack's Daughter (Aysel and Magnus) novel Chapter 297

Chapter 297

Third Person’s POV

(23)

Finished

“He is lucky, your third brother,” Bella, the center of attention today, remarked, padding silently beside Derek as he observed the minor commotion at the gates.

Ivy’s fury had been directed at Magnus, but before he could step forward, Aysel intercepted her effortlessly, a protective stance both gentle and unyielding. In a life raised amidst pack politics and cutthroat hierarchies, encountering a wolf who defended her without calculation-one she also cherished-was a rare, enviable blessing.

Derek watched Magnus ruffle Aysel’s hair, a smile softening the stern Alpha mask, whispering almost to himself, “Magnus has always been fortunate.”

“I’m not bad myself,” Bella said lightly, looping her arm around Derek.

He paused, a warm smile brushing his muzzle as he touched her hair, the motion casual yet intimate.

Elsewhere, Magnus had led Aysel to Bastien.

“Grandfather, long time no see-” Aysel greeted, eyes wide and lashes flickering like twitching whiskers.

Bastien chuckled lightly, forcing a semblance of cordiality. “Good, you came. Sit, rest. Today, there’s no need for you to work.”

Aysel tilted her head, eager. “Really? I’d love to help… maybe watch over the event with Matriarch Ulva?”

Bastien’s grin faltered. “No need. Jenny and the other younglings were just looking for you.” He cast a glance at Magnus, a silent nudge. “It’s dull here. Take Aysel over to play with them.”

Magnus looked at Aysel with indulgent amusement, hooking her pinky with his clawed finger.

Aysel feigned disappointment. “Fine, fine. Grandfather isn’t much fun anyway. I’ll play with the young cubs.” She muttered as she padded away, “The pups are far more entertaining than this biased old wolf.”

Bastien snorted softly, tail flicking in mild irritation.

At such gatherings, Magnus would inevitably be slowed by formalities, flattery, and obligatory social dances. Aysel, uninterested in these rituals, left him behind, bounding toward the younger pack members.

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15:24 Tue, Dec 23

Chapter 297

…

23

Finished

She found Alfie already there. A cluster of lively cubs surrounded him, peppering him with questions about South American insects, comparisons to local species, and the fierce behaviors of various exotic creatures. Others presented their own odd pets for examination, squeaking and squealing with curiosity.

“Long time no see,” Alfie greeted, a gentle smile softening his angular muzzle.

Aysel blinked in surprise. “Finished your research in South America?”

Alfie shook his head. “On a temporary break, escorting my mother back for rest.”

Johanna’s recovery from the heart transplant had been successful, though her strength was diminished. Lyall had brought her home to Shadowbane territory, coinciding with Derek’s engagement. Bastien had summoned even distant family to witness the gathering, seeking harmony over conflict in his waning cycles.

Aysel raised an eyebrow. “What about Uncle Lyall and Aunt Johanna?”

“They’re resting,” Alfie said with a faint smile, “the hall’s too noisy. Father escorted them to a quieter den.”

Aysel had no words; she was not closely acquainted with Alfie. She instead joined the chatter of the younger cubs, listening to tales of the rainforest and insect encounters, occasionally contributing a question or comment.

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