Of course he does!

You send out a letter to him that night, hoping against hope that he gets in time. A week is not much time, though the return address on your letter is close. Anything could happen and you don't want to think of what would happen if Axel didn't make it.

As it turns out, you have nothing to worry about. Four days after you sent your letter, Axel is standing outside your complex, a large smile on his face.

He looks different than you remembered. He's much taller now and his once golden hair has dulled a little. A tan hue now covers his skin and scars mar what was once smooth and delicate. But his eyes still have the spark of joy that you remember so vividly and... Is he wearing that stupid scarf you tried to make him as a kid?

"Rowan!" he calls, stepping forward as the rest of his group follows, "Still as beautiful as I remember you to be."

"Is my beauty all that matters?" you tease, "Why, I thought you better than that!"

"And just as spunky too." he said, "It is good to see you well. I had feared the worst for a long time."

"As did I." you admit, "It was no secret how close our families were. I feared, even with your grandfather's influence, you would be labeled traitors and killed."

"But he has obviously made it." Khayone butts in, giving you a look that screams 'be silent'. You obey and he turns his attention to your suitor.

"Axel Watson, it has been many moons since I laid my eyes upon you." he said, examining him, "You are no longer the defenceless pup I remember running around the forges."

"I may have grown, but I'm still who you remember." he said, keeping his head down in submission, "I know you know why I am here and, while I doubt I am worthy of such a suit, I want to prove my worth as not only a member of your pack, but as a husband and confident of your darling Rowan."

"You are not worthy yet." Khayone admits, "But I am willing to let you prove yourself. I have a task for you to prove your loyalty to our pack and your ability to protect your possible mate. Are you willing to accept this challenge?"

"For a chance with him, I would do anything."

"I'm sure you know of the Red Fang?" he asked, immediately setting you on edge. He wasn't really thinking...

"Who doesn't?" he replied.

"We were to have a deal with them." he explained, "They would send their Alphas to breed with our people, we would allow them access to our river. We were prepared to go through with the offer when we heard through ally packs that they planned to take our breeders and kill everyone else in order to expand their pack and their territory. As of now, we are at war with them. To prove yourself, I need you and your pack members to travel with ours and show them that we are not to be trifled with. Do you still accept?"

Axel didn't answer, but nodded his head.

"You head out at sunrise. Do not be late."