Kael didn't pull back. If anything, he sat up straighter—basking in the attention, savoring the whispered speculation.
The standard honors wrapped up quickly.
The ceremonial caller's voice rose with practiced excitement: "And now, the moment you've all been waiting for—the Moonlit Contribution Honor!"
"A chest of silver-tribute, plus a prestige patrol mount and elite den grant!"
The great hall fell silent for a heartbeat, then erupted into a buzz of speculation.
Everyone knew the weight of this prize.
"Who could it be? Beta Thorne?"
"My wager's on Elder Vance from the Border Patrol—his wolves doubled their territory gains this year."
"What about..." someone lowered their voice, "Omega Liaison Ashford? He's the Pack Steward's golden pup."
Kael Ashford clearly heard that last remark.
The curve of his lips deepened, a flicker of smug certainty crossing his eyes.
Beside him, Selene smoothed an invisible crease from her ceremonial gown, her smile perfectly composed.
I picked up the gilded scroll and slid it open, taking my time.
"This year, our pack welcomed an exceptional new member." My gaze swept across the gathered wolves. "She joined the Wardcraft division less than six moons ago, yet she spearheaded the core sigil breakthrough for the Starsea Ward—saving the pack nearly ten thousand silver-marks and pioneering an entirely new protective pathway."
Whispers rippled through the crowd.
As my words sank in, the smugness on Kael's face slowly calcified. Selene's polished smile evaporated.
I continued reading: "She is young, yet possesses extraordinary talent and focus. She keeps a low profile, yet her achievements shine brilliantly."
"By unanimous decision of the Elder Council, this cycle's Moonlit Contribution Honor goes to..."
I paused, letting my gaze land squarely on Kael's face.
The color had already begun draining from his cheeks. That confident smirk hung frozen in place—a poorly fitted mask starting to crack.
I looked away and announced clearly:
"From the Wardcraft Division—Lyra Stonevale!"
"Winner of the Moonlit Contribution Honor!"
Applause and howls of celebration detonated simultaneously.
The torchlight swung to an unremarkable table tucked in the corner.
A young she-wolf in simple attire, her dark hair pulled back in a practical braid, scrambled to her feet. Bewilderment and disbelief were written across every feature.