Page 45 of Fat Forced Mate

She stands, meeting my gaze briefly before addressing the room. "The law as written specifically targets 'willful magic'—meaning intentional spellcraft. But magic itself is not just spells and rituals. For those born with magical heritage, it's an innate part of who we are."

A few Council members shift uncomfortably, but no one interrupts.

"The Cheslem raiders use corrupted magic against us," she continues. "Wouldn't it make sense to counter that with pure magic? The kind that flows naturally from the earth and those connected to it?"

Elder Roberts scoffs. "Are you suggesting we invite witches into our territory? Make ourselves vulnerable to outside influences?"

"I'm suggesting," Luna responds calmly, "that you already have magic within your borders. You have me. You have others with mixed heritage who've suppressed their abilities out of fear of breaking this outdated law."

The room falls silent, her words landing with the weight of truth many have avoided acknowledging.

"Magic isn't inherently corrupting," she presses. "The Cheslem Pack didn't become what they are because they used magic—they became corrupted because they pursued power at any cost."

I find myself nodding slightly before I catch the movement and stop. As Alpha, I need to remain neutral until aconsensus is reached, but her logic is sound. More than sound—it's compelling.

Victoria smiles faintly. I narrow my eyes at her.

Elder Roberts and several others begin arguing against any change, citing tradition and risk. Others, particularly younger Council members, voice cautious support for Luna's perspective. The debate grows heated, splintering into multiple conversations.

I let it continue for several minutes, observing the divisions and alliances forming, before calling for order.

"This is clearly a matter that requires further reflection," I announce. "Each Council member should consider the arguments presented today. We'll revisit this topic at our next meeting, after the final trial is complete."

It's a diplomatic postponement, and everyone knows it. But with tensions running high and the final trial approaching, now isn't the time for sweeping changes to pack law.

As the meeting disperses, I notice Luna slipping away, her expression tight with frustration. Without a conscious decision, I follow her.

She's halfway down the empty corridor when I catch up to her.

"Luna."

She turns, arms crossed defensively across her chest. "Alpha."

"That was quite a speech."

"Was it inappropriate?" Her chin lifts in challenge. "To speak the truth?"

"It was unexpected," I clarify, keeping my voice neutral despite the way my pulse quickens at her proximity. "But not unwelcome."

This catches her off guard. "You agree with me?"

I choose my words carefully. "I don’t disagree. I think it’s brave, at least. Bold. Some might call it brash.”

"Brash?" Her eyes flash dangerously. "The Cheslem Pack is at your borders using corrupted magic, and you're worried about me appearing impulsive?"

"That’s not what I said. I'm worried about maintaining pack unity when we need it most," I counter, stepping closer. "Half the Council would revolt if we abolished that law overnight."

"So you prioritize their comfort over your pack’s safety?"

Your pack. Your pack.My wolf snarls. Not ‘our pack.’ I push through the discomfort, the roaring of my instincts. "I prioritize finding solutions that don't create new problems."

We've moved closer with each exchange, the space between us shrinking until I can detect every nuance of her scent—the familiar lavender and sage now underlaid with something richer, warmer, more vital. My wolf surges forward, recognizing something my human mind still can't identify.

Luna's breath catches as she seems to realize our proximity. Her eyes drop briefly to my lips before returning to meet my gaze, a flash of heat that can't be disguised.

"Your argument has merit," I say, my voice dropping lower. "But your approach needs work."

"My approach?" She doesn't step back, though her hands have uncrossed, falling to her sides. "What would you suggest, Alpha?"

---