The Luna Choosing Game

His mouth near the microphone, Nicholas paused a moment as if thinking. Then he spoke.

“Miss Piper was chosen by the ceremony, and the royal family will honor that choice.”

He continued, “One of the many crises we face as a people is a low birthrate among werewolves. Any mother, especially one raising a child on her own, is to be commended.”

He paused, again gathering his thoughts. The way he spoke was purposeful and careful, each word carefully considered.

“Piper represents the cultural progression of our kingdom. We, collectively, have moved beyond the era of allowing only young maidens to be Luna. Now, any woman can have her chance.”

A few claps sounded in the audience, before the reporter spoke up again. “In addition to being a single

mother, isn’t Piper also a non–werewolf?”

“Neither non–werewolves nor single mothers will face discrimination by this royal family,” Nicholas said,

faster to respond than he had been before.

My heart pounded. That sounded like a defense of me. I forced that feeling down. No, he was defending.

his family from potential ridicule, not me.

the others began to insist he sit down. He’d already asked his fair share of questions. But the report

continue to place their faith in us and the strength of this kingdom.

back, finished with

of the reporters

had his

born for this, I realized. Raised to be

Raised to be King.

finally sat down, and another was selected. The rest of the questions were simpler, asked to gain soundbites from the princes regarding the beauty and poise of

most

No one mentioned me.

another reporter asked, “Will the political strength of the different packs

choices at all?*

of each candidate

“the reporter tried to say.

of the selection process will be broadcasted live,

of each individual girl. The princes will follow the will of the

make the correct choices.”

reporter silenced, he sat

press conference ended shortly after

returned inside

my room, one of

on television,” she said.