Chapter 99: A Pledge Of Loyalty
Martha hustled Lily through the crowded main hall, her weathered hands gently urging her forward. Everyone was packed into the space, their bodies forming a living barrier that parted reluctantly as they passed. Whispers followed them like shadows.
“Hurry, Luna!” Martha murmured anxiously. “The ceremony is about to begin.”
Ahead of them, Ezra appeared, his imposing figure cutting through the crowd with practiced ease.
“There you are,” he said, relief evident in his voice. “Alpha Zayn is waiting. The ceremony cannot start without the Luna present.”
Lily nodded, quickening her pace. She felt the weight of hundreds of eyes tracking her movement, some curious, others judgmental. As they approached the front of the hall, she saw Zayn standing on a raised platform, his powerful frame commanding attention without effort. His eyes locked with hers, his expression unreadable.
She quickly took her place beside him, standing slightly behind his right shoulder as tradition dictated. The crowd fell silent.
Zayn’s voice filled the hall, deep and authoritative. “Today, we formally recognize our pack warriors. Those who will protect our territory and our people.”
He gestured to the group of muscular wolves standing at attention before the platform. “Step forward and pledge your loyalty.”
One by one, the warriors from the former Obsidian Moon pack approached, kneeling before Zayn. Each recited the ancient pledge of loyalty, swearing to protect the pack with their lives.
Ryker, Axel, and Jett did so without hesitation, kneeling first before Zayn and then before Lily. But when Ragnar’s turn came, he walked past Zayn without acknowledging him and knelt directly before Lily.
A shocked murmur rippled through the crowd. Zayn’s eyes narrowed dangerously.
“I pledge my loyalty to Luna Lily of Thunderpaw,” Ragnar declared loudly, his voice echoing through the suddenly quiet hall. Behind him, several other warriors moved forward, following his example.