Chapter 3
376words
The Silver Frost pack—one of the three most powerful packs on the continent.
Karl hosted a feast in the great hall to welcome them.
As Luna, I took my place beside him, silent and decorative.
The lead envoy wasted no time with pleasantries.
"Alpha Karl, we propose a union between you and our Alpha's daughter, Lily. She is an exceptional Omega."
Murmurs erupted throughout the hall.
My fingers curled into a fist beneath the table.
Karl's brow furrowed. "I already have a Luna."
"Hardly an obstacle." The messenger's smile never reached his eyes. "Banish your current Luna, marry Lily, and the North allies with Silver Moon. Our military might and resources will make you ruler of the Western Territories."
The elders' eyes gleamed with naked ambition.
Karl said nothing—didn't refuse, didn't even hesitate.
He was calculating his options while my heart turned to ice in my chest.
"I'll consider your proposal," Karl finally said.
Three days later, Lily herself arrived.
She swept into the hall in an elaborate fox fur coat and combat boots, chin raised like she already owned the place.
Her gaze landed on me with predatory focus.
"This is your Luna?" She didn't bother hiding her contempt. "She looks too fragile to be of any real use."
I bit the inside of my cheek until I tasted blood.
Lily stalked toward me, towering over my seated form.
"From some backwater pack, aren't you?" She sniffed dramatically. "I can smell the stink of barren territory all over you."
She turned to Karl with a dismissive flick of her hand.
"Alpha Karl, your taste is certainly... charitable."
Every pack member in the hall suddenly found the floor fascinating. No one defended me. Karl said nothing.
Lily's smile widened, emboldened by their silence.
"Don't worry, you have me now." She patted my shoulder like I was a child. "You've played Luna long enough. Time for someone qualified to take over."
She strode to the dais and dropped into my seat beside Karl's throne.
"Comfortable," she purred, smiling at Karl. "I'll make a much better Luna."
I stood frozen, nails cutting half-moons into my palms.
Karl's eyes flicked to mine before sliding away in shame.
