Six months after the entity's defeat, the true scope of damage became clear.
Entire cities had been partially destroyed. Hundreds of supernatural beings had died. The coalition's resources were stretched thin trying to rebuild while maintaining peace.
"We need a systematic approach," Adrian said during a reconstruction meeting. "Prioritize population centers first, then expand outward."
"That leaves rural areas vulnerable," a werewolf alpha protested.
"We don't have unlimited resources. We save the most lives first, then expand as we can."
The debates were exhausting. Every species had different priorities, different needs. Adrian spent eighteen-hour days coordinating reconstruction efforts while trying to maintain coalition unity.
"You're burning out again," Kieran observed one evening, finding Adrian still working at 2 AM.
"There's too much to do—"
"There's always too much. But you're no good to anyone if you collapse." Kieran closed Adrian's laptop firmly. "Bed. Now."
"Kieran—"
"That's an order from your mate."
Adrian wanted to argue but couldn't. He was exhausted, running on fumes and stubbornness. Kieran guided him to bed, helping him undress.
"Just sleep," Kieran said when Adrian tried to initiate intimacy. "You need rest, not sex."
"But I want—"
"Sleep first. Then tomorrow, after you've rested, I'll give you everything you want."
Adrian fell asleep within minutes, his body finally surrendering to exhaustion. Kieran held him close, protecting him even from himself.