Beside him, Selene smoothed an invisible crease from her ceremonial gown, her smile perfectly composed.
I picked up the gilded scroll and slid it open, taking my time.
"This year, our pack welcomed an exceptional new member." My gaze swept across the gathered wolves. "She joined the Wardcraft division less than six moons ago, yet she spearheaded the core sigil breakthrough for the Starsea Ward—saving the pack nearly ten thousand silver-marks and pioneering an entirely new protective pathway."
Whispers rippled through the crowd.
As my words sank in, the smugness on Kael's face slowly calcified. Selene's polished smile evaporated.
I continued reading: "She is young, yet possesses extraordinary talent and focus. She keeps a low profile, yet her achievements shine brilliantly."
"By unanimous decision of the Elder Council, this cycle's Moonlit Contribution Honor goes to..."
I paused, letting my gaze land squarely on Kael's face.
The color had already begun draining from his cheeks. That confident smirk hung frozen in place—a poorly fitted mask starting to crack.
I looked away and announced clearly:
"From the Wardcraft Division—Lyra Stonevale!"
"Winner of the Moonlit Contribution Honor!"