Chapter 116: Chapter 116: Making Use of Resources
Estelle’s POV
I didn’t like using Zayne’s name to help solve my problems. However, when the time called for it, it was definitely useful.
The meeting room buzzed with excited chatter. Council members leaned toward each other, their previous skepticism replaced by barely contained enthusiasm.
“The Lycan King,” Geoffrey murmured, shaking his head in amazement. “Our Luna is engaged to the Lycan King.”
“This changes everything,” Winona whispered to Walter. “Blackmoon will have direct connections to the lycan royal court.”
I watched the transformation happen in real time. These same people who had questioned my qualifications just minutes ago now looked at me with newfound respect. It was almost amusing how quickly attitudes could shift.
Ernest sat frozen in his chair, his mouth still slightly open. Ethel stared at her hands, clearly realizing how badly she had miscalculated. Benedict maintained his forced smile, but I could see the tension in his shoulders.
The murmurs grew louder. A pack allied with the Lycan King would have protection, resources, and influence beyond anything Blackmoon had ever achieved. Even though Blackmoon had historically always worked closely with the lycans, having a Lycan Queen as their Luna was an entirely different level of power and influence.
“Well,” I said, raising my voice to regain their attention. “I think we can consider this matter settled.”
Geoffrey nodded enthusiastically. “Indeed. We’re honored to have you as our Luna, Estelle.”
“Absolutely,” Walter agreed. “We look forward to seeing what developments lie ahead.”
Even some of the division leaders who had seemed uncertain earlier now stepped forward with eager expressions.
I stood up slowly, signaling the end of the meeting. “Thank you all for your time and attention today. I appreciate your support.”
One by one, people began filing out of the room. The conversations continued in the hallway, voices filled with excitement and speculation about what this meant for their pack’s future.
Benedict remained seated until most others had left. Finally, he rose and walked over to me, that practiced smile still plastered on his face.
“Congratulations on handling that so well,” he said smoothly. “I have to admit, I didn’t think you would announce your engagement so soon before the wedding. Your announcement caught everyone by surprise.”
I met his gaze steadily. “Thank you for your cooperation, Benedict. The meeting couldn’t have gone so smoothly without your support.”
His smile tightened slightly, but he nodded graciously. “Of course. We’re all working toward the same goal here.”
With that, he turned and left the room, his footsteps echoing in the hallway.
Once the meeting room was completely empty, Caleb and Killian approached me. Killian’s face showed genuine admiration.
“That was masterfully done,” Killian said, clasping his hands behind his back. “You handled their doubts perfectly and turned the situation completely around.”
I shook my head. “Caleb deserves the credit for this. I couldn’t have managed it without his help.”
“I merely passed the message to Noah,” Caleb said sheepishly. “It’s nothing special.”
Before arriving at Blackmoon, Caleb and I had already discussed the issue of missing council members. As soon as we entered, Caleb informed Noah via the mindlink to get the members, as well as other leaders of Blackmoon.
Our cluelessness and helplessness were just an act for Benedict. Behind the scenes, Caleb and Noah had already set everything up perfectly. Even people who weren’t originally planning to attend had arrived at the scene to create a bigger buzz.
Killian looked between us, then smiled proudly at his son. “Quick thinking. That made all the difference.”
“It did,” I agreed. “Benedict and Ernest were probably counting on having a smaller audience they could more easily influence.”
Killian patted Caleb on the shoulder. “Well done. In that case, I’ll leave you two to handle the remaining details.”
After Killian left, Caleb shook his head with amusement. “Benedict must be absolutely furious right now.”
“Probably,” I said. “I wonder what Helena’s reaction will be when she hears about this.”
Caleb grinned. “I bet Benedict is already rushing around, trying to figure out which council members he can still count on for support.”
I nodded, thinking about the underhanded tactics they had attempted. Benedict and Ernest had deliberately not informed several council members about the meeting time, hoping to stack the vote in their favor. They had even arranged for Ethel to keep Walter and Geoffrey busy with other matters.
It was such a transparent and weak strategy. Did they really think I wouldn’t notice such obvious manipulation?
“By the way,” Caleb said, pulling me from my thoughts, “the council has officially assigned proper houses to Edmund and the others.”
Edmund and the others had been staying in the pack house while waiting for approval. Even though those rooms had been slightly refurbished to accommodate them, not much could be done on such short notice. They had to make do with the rooms for the time being.
“That’s wonderful news,” I said. “Please ask Noah to help them settle in properly.”
“Of course.” Caleb paused, then added, “Actually, Juliet also mentioned wanting to reschedule yesterday’s celebration to today. She asked if you’d like to join us.”
I considered for a moment. After the stress of the meeting, spending time with friends sounded appealing. “Yes, I’d like that.”
“Great. Velma recommended a restaurant in neutral territory. We can head over whenever you’re ready.”
***
The shopping mall bustled with activity as we made our way toward the restaurant. Couples walked hand in hand while families browsed storefront displays. The atmosphere was relaxed and cheerful, a nice change from the tense meeting room.
As we passed a boutique, something in the window caught my eye. I stopped abruptly, studying the display.
“Is something wrong?” Caleb asked, noticing my hesitation.
I shook my head. “You all go ahead. I’ll catch up in a few minutes.”
River frowned. “Are you sure? We can wait for you if you need—”
Bosco laughed loudly and slung his arms around both River’s and Caleb’s shoulders.
“This is exactly why you two are still single,” Bosco announced, steering them toward the restaurant entrance.
Behind him, Edmund, Juliet, and Velma laughed knowingly. The four of them were all in relationships, so they had immediately understood what had captured my attention in the men’s section of the boutique.
“We’ll grab a table,” Juliet called over her shoulder. “Take your time.”
I smiled gratefully and walked into the store.
***
Third POV
Several miles away, in a different part of the neutral territory, Asher frowned at his companion’s appearance.
“Why are you dressed so strangely?” he asked, eyeing the dark sunglasses and scarf that covered most of Hazel’s face. “It’s not even that sunny today.”
Hazel turned toward him sharply, her eyes flashing with anger even behind the tinted lenses.
“Do you know what will happen to me if I am caught with you?!”
