The sound echoed through the council hall like a death knell.
"I know you swapped the ritual sigils because you wanted first standing. Fine—I'll give you the title. You can have the rite championship." His voice cracked, raw and desperate. "But please, can you at least give me back the tribute prize?" He bowed his head lower. "If you want me to ghost-scribe for you in the future, just ask. You don't have to steal my work."
Selene rushed forward, cradling him protectively against her chest. "A wolf's knees are sacred to the pack! You're the victim here—why should you kneel to him?!"
If I agreed with anything Darian said, I'd be confessing on the spot.
I kept my voice level, letting no growl slip through. "As far as I know, Academy fees are twelve thousand in tribute per cycle. You could sell any single item you're wearing and cover that several times over." I paused, letting my gaze sweep meaningfully over his expensive attire. "And for the record—I have zero interest in winning a traditional Moon-ink rite. Why would I swap anyone's work?"