Chapter 107 Retreat In Order To Advance
And Zion? He was already isolated by the council. One more political misstep didn’t matter to him, so long as it wasn’t connected to Addison. Yes, it contradicted his long-term plan of growing strong enough to shield Addison if the Alpha King came for her, but right now?
Right now, Zion was still an Alpha. And no Alpha tolerated open defiance in their own territory, especially not a challenge to their authority.
But Claire was no fool—she was a master manipulator who knew exactly when to advance and when to retreat. Realizing she wouldn’t win this confrontation, she gracefully stood up, masking her retreat behind a sweet, composed smile. She played the role of the magnanimous woman, never letting it show that she was backing down with her tail between her legs.
Without missing a beat, she redirected her attention. If Zion was a wall she couldn’t climb, then she’d find another way in. Her eyes fell on the former Luna—the woman who had once treated her kindly. Claire glided toward her, the picture of warmth and humility, already shifting her strategy. If she couldn’t crack Zion’s defenses, then she’d win over his mother. The former Luna might no longer hold the title, but her influence in the pack remained significant. Gaining her favor could still open doors.
The reason Claire had never managed to get close to the former Luna all these years was simple—opportunity. When the former Luna first assigned attendants to serve Claire, it was a gesture of goodwill, meant to ensure Claire was properly cared for and surrounded by people who could support her. It was a significant advantage for Claire, one she had quietly capitalized on.
But the former Luna herself had long withdrawn from daily life. Ever since losing her mate, her heart had been broken—both figuratively and literally. The illness that plagued her wasn’t something any doctor or healer could cure, not even the Saintess. It was the kind of sickness that only the will to live could mend, and the former Luna no longer had that will.
Because of this, she spent most of her days secluded in her chambers, eating her meals in solitude and rarely appearing in public. This left Claire with few chances to interact with her. But whenever even the smallest opportunity arose, Claire never let it slip by. She was patient, calculating, always ready to act.
And though the former Luna remained distant, it was no secret that she had a softer spot for Claire than she ever had for Addison. Claire knew it—and she intended to use it.
"Madam, you’re already awake? Let’s eat together," Claire said warmly as she quickly approached the former Luna, reaching out to support her with gentle care. She walked beside her as if she belonged there, then threw a glance back at Zion—a soft, apologetic smile on her lips, her expression painted with frustration and a hint of wounded pride.