Chapter 105
Conrad POV
I’m standing in one of my finest suits looking out the window through my reflection. My crown feels even heavier on my head than usual. I’m waiting in the side room of the throne room, waiting for the ceremony to start, and I reflect on everything that has happened over the past three weeks.
Darlina was brought for marriage at 14 to a man twice her age. Brianna not being able to be with her chosen mate and hiding a pregnancy while considering going rogue. Lewana is at constant risk of being taken as a breeder. The fact that raping a pup isn’t a crime. Even how Mary ended up with her ex–mate.
I was so focused on rejoining the modern world and rebuilding the werewolf empire that I neglected basic rights because I never considered them. Because I never knew she–wolf rights were so violated. I just assumed most Alpha’s looked after them like I did and that the Werewolf rights covered them.
I’m a proud person but I will admit when I was wrong, but as I stare at my reflection I consider what it is like to be invisible. To be there but people see right through you. Well, that is going to change with what I have planned today.
I hear the ceremonial trumpets play and brace myself. I head out to the throne room and take a seat feeling my power in this moment as I know the change that is coming. I call out to all the regions to cast their vote for hopefully the second to
last time.
I use some of my Alpha commands to silence the crowd and start proceeding. “Will the four councilmen step forward and cast their vote. The East“.
Alpha Anthony steps forward smug as ever. “The East votes for Lady Cordelia“.
“The South“.
The blundering idiots stutter rapidly. “The South votes for Lady Cordelia“.
“The West“.
Brianna’s father steps forward proudly. “The West votes for Lady Lewana“.
“The North“.
“The North votes for Lady Lewana“.
The look on Cordelia’s face is priceless. She is gritting her teeth hard at losing another vote and I can see she trying not to explode. I will have to discuss with the West tomorrow to see what changed their minds and make sure it stays that way.
“As per ceremony guidelines, this week, Lady Valerie will be eliminated. However, before we conclude today’s proceedings. I would like Lady Valerie to join me in front of you all”
Everyone is confused and hushed murmurs break out across the room. Lady Valerie as well. She is clearly a bit nervous but comes up as asked. I take her hand a whisper to her. “Don’t look so worried. It’s a good thing“.
I look out across the room and order silence before I make my announcement.
“The one thing that this ceremony has shown me is the abuse and lack of respect shown towards our she–wolves. Even
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though all the ladies presented at the start of this ceremony were deemed to be the highest–ranking she–wolves, most were brought her without regard for their welfare. During my meeting with Lady Valerie, she taught me a lot about the abuse and discrimination she–wolves face and the strength they need to overcome these challenges. That is why, if she will accept, I want to offer her a new position. Councilwomen for the welfare and rights of she–wolves“.
Before anyone can respond Valerie burst out crying. “Yes. Yes it would be an honor. Yes“. She starts bowing but is clearly not sure what to do.
Lady Lewana comes forward with open arms and she runs into them crying. Both ladies are jumping and celebrating while the rest of the crowd looks on with a mixture of pride, happiness, and confusion. I look around at the councilmen and they are furious. Good.
Lewana POV
I had no idea Conrad had that planned but I was so happy when he announced it. I wanted to hug Councilwoman Valerie as much as she probably needed a hug at that moment.
As soon as the ceremony concludes the orders come out and are served. I grab two glasses of champagne a passing tray
and hand one to her.
“A toast. To impending change“.
We both drink and she smiles at me. “I can’t believe he did that. This changes literally everything I have worked for“.
“That is why he probably did it. That and you don’t take crap from anyone“.
We both laugh as Lady Cordelia comes over.
“Condolences Lady Valerie. You came to get a mate and now you leave alone. Again”
Valerie just smirks. “I would be careful Lady Cordelia. Councilwomen are ranked higher than Ladies so by status regards, I’m now more important to you“.
She rolls her eyes. “Please. It’s a token gesture as a consultation prize. As soon as I am Luna Queen, I will dissolve the
position as it is a waste of resources“.
Valerie stares her down. “And when you are rejected and kicked out of the territory in 7 days, what will your consultation prize be. Or have you forgotten that ALL. councilmembers get to vote and next time, My vote won’t be for you“.
Cordelia suddenly realizes the implication and turns to stomp off to her father. No doubt they will be scheming away this week. I don’t know what they will try but I know desperate wolves don’t act well to being cornered.
The night drags on and I can feel Conrad trying to reach out for me but is being blocked by everyone again. I don’t mind. I’m used to it now, I know we will meet up later. It’s getting late in the evening and I decide to head to bed.
“One more drink before you go my lady“. I smile at the Omega. I’m in a good mood and it’s my favorite cocktail. I sip it slowly and once done I start to walk back to my room.
Something isn’t right. I feel sluggish and the walls and floor are moving around me. I didn’t have that much to drink. Three drinks total.
“Serena, what’s happening“.
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Chapter 105
She quiet. An arm reaches out to support me. I strange scent of cigar smoke makes me dizzy.
“It’s OK my Lady. I’ll look after you“.
