Chapter 9 - THE RED MOON RISING
That evening, Ashthorn Palace blazed with thousands of silver lanterns under the light of a rare, blood-red full moon.
The grand ballroom was packed with nobles, foreign dignitaries, and pack alphas from across the territories—all of them bowing low as Vivian walked down the grand marble staircase on the arm of the Alpha King.
She wore a gown of spun silver and lace that shimmered like moonlight against her skin, her hair cascading down her back in soft waves. Gone was the frightened healer who had dropped linens in the courtyard; beside Declan, she looked every inch a queen.
When they reached the center of the ballroom, the music died down to a hushed whisper.
Declan stepped forward, turning to face the assembly, his hand remaining firmly linked with Vivian’s.
"For too long," Declan began, his deep voice carrying effortlessly across the vast room, "this court has believed that power is measured by bloodlines, titles, and fear. We were wrong. True strength lies in loyalty, in honesty, and in the courage to stand beside someone who sees you not for your crown, but for who you are."
He turned his gaze fully to Vivian, lifting her hand and pressing his lips softly to her knuckles before all the lords and ladies of the realm.
"Tonight, before the witnesses of every northern pack and under the gaze of the blood moon, I claim Vivian Brooks not just as my mate, but as the rightful Luna of Ashthorn."
A collective cheer erupted through the hall, thunderous and undeniable. Even those who had opposed her secretly knew better than to contest the king’s will now.
Later that night, away from the roaring crowds and the glittering chandeliers, Declan led Vivian out onto the high stone balcony overlooking the snow-capped northern peaks. The red moon hung low in the velvet sky, casting a crimson glow across the ancient stone walls.
Two massive white wolves stood sentinel at the edge of the terrace, throwing their heads back to the sky in a triumphant, haunting howl.
Declan stepped behind Vivian, wrapping his massive, powerful arms around her waist and pulling her back against his solid chest. He rested his chin on her shoulder, breathing in the familiar, soothing scent of her skin.
"Do you regret walking into my courtyard that morning?" he whispered against her ear, a faint smile playing on his lips.
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Vivian leaned back into his embrace, resting her hands over his muscular arms. "Only that I didn't insult your height sooner, Your Majesty."
Declan let out a deep, rumbling laugh that vibrated through them both. He turned her gently in his arms, his blue-gray eyes burning with an eternity of devotion as he captured her lips in a sweet, fierce kiss that sealed their fate forever.
