Della stood slowly, eyes narrowing. They had been expecting this and they were ready to squash any doubt. "And what truth is that?"
"That she is not of us. Not born under the Moon. How can she rule what she does not share?"
Nyla stepped forward.
"I wasn't born under your moon," she said, her voice steady. "I was born in its shadow. Beneath a different sky. But I was willing to give up my life to protect this pack. I faced trials to seal the veil. I stood beside Jax, not just for us and our bond, but for you."
The hall was silent.
"I may not shift like you. But I cry like you. I love like you. I would die for Crescent Moon. Can you say the same?"
The golden-haired emissary stared at her, gaze unreadable. Then, slowly, she inclined her head. "Then prove it. At the coronation. Let the Moonstone judge. If you are worthy, it will glow for you."
Nyla didn't flinch. "Then let it shine."
