My sex fere culder beneath me, harder somehow, as the head judge’s voice echoes through the air.
For more pack leadership and redefining strength–Wandhowl
The words ripple an
space like a crack of lightning
me sup to Siena, dimor instantively, and I catch the flicker of surprise on her face before the smooths it into worthing cale, macroposed
Dignified
Her expression dore’t say dock–it says learned this
And she did
The veteras Ranking her, the ones the other packs have mocked as “cripples” and “has–beens” all day, straighten their spines. Their eyes shine, not with arrogance but with something deeper.
It’s a look that says, Finally, someone sees us for who we are.
The applause begins slowly, tentatively. A smattering of claps here and there, hesitant and unsure. But then it grows, spreading across the arena like wildfire.
Even some of the more traditional Alphas, the ones who sneered and scoffed at Windhowl earlier, nod grudgingly as they dap. I can see it in their faces. They may not like who’s won, but they can’t deny it’s deserved
Beside me, Lila stiffens
Her perfectly manicured hand grips my arm so tightly that her claws dig into my skin. I don’t move.
I don’t react.
My gaze is fred on Siena, who steps forward to accept the high honors with a grace that’s entirely at odds with the Siena I thought I knew. There’s no smugness in her movements, no gloating in her expression.
Just quiet pride.
“How could a group of cripples possibly represent strength?” Lila hisses, her voice sharp and venomous. It carries farther than she probably intends, loud enough for the nearby packs to hear. A few wolves glance our way, their expressions disapproving
One older Alpha, his face lined with scars, shakes his head in disgust.
“Watch your tone, I murmur, my voice low. My wolf growls softly beneath my skin, restless, irritated. Lila flinches but doesn’t release my arm. She leans closer instead, her voice dropping to a furious whisper.
“This is ridiculous,” she spits. “They’re just trying to make a statement. It’s politics, Raiden. Nothing more.”
I don’t answer her, I can’t. My attention is locked on the head judge, who steps forward again, raising his hand to quiet the lingering applause. A holographic projection springs to life above him, shimmering in the air like a living document. It’s Siena’s proposal. Detailed. Comprehensive. Brilliant.
08:37 Sun, 20 Apr L
Chapter 25
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+5
The judge’s voice carries across the arena. “Windhowl’s Luna has presented a model that not only supports disabled veterans but integrates them into pack life in ways that utilize their unique skills. This proposal ensures dignity, fosters prosperity, and minimizes resource drain. It is a system designed to uplift rather than isolate.”
The hologram shifts, displaying charts, diagrams, and step–by–step plans. I can’t stop staring.
Everything is accounted for–every possible challenge, every objection countered with logical, efficient solutions. This isn’t just a token gesture or some idealistic dream. It’s a blueprint for something real. Something that works.
More than her vendetta agist Lila, or her hatred for me.
So much more.
