Page 111 of Abandoned By My Alpha Husband

"But," one elder ventured carefully, "making a half-breed Luna—it's too radical. The other families won't accept it."

"They will," I said, returning to my seat. "Because the humans will support it."

I signaled Marcus. He stepped forward and projected prepared documents onto the big screen.

"Over the years, the human businesses I've supported now hold a third of Reserpine's market share," I said. "The Commerce Guild, the Merchants' Association, human district councilors—they're all backing Elena. They say if the Luna is a half-breed, it proves Silver pine is truly changing. That humans and werewolves can be equals."

The screen scrolled through letters of support and joint statements from major human enterprises.

"And," I continued, "I've prepared new legislation. Repeal the pure blood Protection Act. Allow half-breeds to inherit family assets. Allow free marriage between humans and werewolves. Eliminate segregation between human and werewolf districts..."

"These laws will be enacted immediately after the ceremony."

The elders' faces grew uglier.

"Your Majesty," the Grand Elder shot to his feet. "You're going to destroy Reserpine's traditions!"

"Traditions?" I sneered. "The ones that made us slaughter each other? That let the Butcher Squad grow? Grand Elder, times have changed. If the Hale family doesn't change, it'll be left behind."

"I object!"

"I object too!"

Several elders voiced their dissent.

"Then you can resign from the Elder Council," I said calmly. "I already have replacements lined up. Silver pine isn't short on werewolves willing to reform."

The Grand Elder glared at me, chest heaving.

"You have three days to decide." I stood. "At the ceremony in three days, I expect to see you there. If you don't come, hand over your elder's badge."

I turned and left. As the door closed, I heard the sound of shattering glass.

Marcus followed me.

"Your Majesty," he said quietly, "isn't this... too radical?"

"No," I said. "Marcus, Silver pine needs change. And my mate will be the symbol of that change."

Marcus paused, then bowed. "Forgive me, Your Majesty. I was overthinking." He looked up, resolve in his eyes. "Silver pine will only get better."

Three days later, the ceremony was held in the great hall of Hale Manor.

I arrived two hours early to oversee every detail.

Crystal chandeliers gleamed. Red and gold carpet stretched from the entrance to the dais. Flowers filled the hall—lilies, roses, and sprigs of Elena's favorite bay leaves. A delicate fragrance hung in the air.

Two chairs sat at the front, draped in gold and silver silk. Behind them hung the Hale family crest—a black wolf howling at the moon.

Guests began to arrive.

Noble werewolves in formal attire, expressions mixed—curious, displeased, watchful. Human merchants came too, in sharp suits, faces bright with excitement and anticipation.

The Elder Council arrived last. Seven elders in traditional robes, faces sour, but at least they came.

"Your Majesty," Marcus approached. "All the guests have arrived. The Luna is ready as well."

I nodded and took a deep breath.