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I pull a chair beside her desk. “Wouldn’t dream of it.”

Brennan returns to his book. He knows I work for Rylan, but apparently that means little without a rank attached to my name. Rylan’s speech made his expectations clear. Brennan seems confident enough in his own position to ignore them.

I rest my hand against Arlene’s back.

He’s looking down on you, she says.

I noticed.

You’re enjoying this.

Only a little.

She lowers her head, hiding a smile.

Brennan turns a page.

“As I was saying, the Luna’s responsibilities are substantial, but they must remain balanced with the authority of the Elders and Council. Matters involving outside packs, security, or decisions that could affect Silver Moon’s political relationships should be referred to the Elders first, then the Council, and lastly the Alpha’s office.”

Luna Selena writes it down.

I keep my eyes on Arlene’s screen.

“What if another Luna comes directly to me?” Luna Selena asks.

“You may receive her request, of course. But before making any decisions, you should reach out to the Elders. They can advise you on the appropriate course of action.”

“And if it’s urgent?”

“Then you refer it urgently.”

Arlene shifts in her chair. I move my hand to the small of her back and rub gently.

“Better?” I murmur.

“A little.”

Brennan continues. “The same principle applies to Council matters. A Luna should be careful not to act independently where her decisions might conflict with the Elders’ guidance.”

Luna Selena’s pen pauses. “So I should ask the Elders before making those decisions?”

“Precisely. You would still be the face of the decision, of course.”

“The face of it?”

“Yes. Think of your position as similar to Martha’s, though on a much larger scale. She is the head omega and makes certain the household runs smoothly and everyone is comfortable. Your responsibility is much the same. You make certain the pack is cared for and that everyone, especially the Elders, is comfortable with the decisions being made.”

My hand stills against Arlene’s back.

Martha runs the household.

Luna Selena is the Luna.

Brennan has just compared the queen of this pack to the head omega, then placed the Elders above her as if she exists to carry out their decisions and keep them comfortable.

Luna Selena looks down at her notes. “But if I disagree with the Elders?”

“You may express your concerns. Ultimately, however, a Luna must understand the importance of maintaining harmony with those responsible for guiding the pack.”