His voice turned razor-sharp. "You all think this rite is just about rankings and tribute prizes. But the grand champion gains a guaranteed position within the Ancient Moon-Keeper's Academy."
"That's something no amount of territorial competitions can secure!"
Gasps swept through the hall, the scent of shock permeating the air.
Selene's eyes filled with disgust. "Even if you claw your way into an elite academy through dishonor, you won't survive the first moon cycle. And besides—" She smiled coldly, her fangs glinting. "Your true nature is about to be exposed."
When my expression didn't waver, she pointed at me, voice dripping venom.
"We'll see who's howling in defeat when the evidence is laid bare!"
A group of uniformed Council investigators approached, one of them holding up a scrying crystal.
"This contains the complete record—the ritual creation process and the submission procedure. We're here to settle this dispute once and for all."
The lead investigator turned to me. "You're Kael Nightforge, the one who was reported for oath-breaking?" His tone was clinical, professional. "I'll ask you one final time: Did you swap another wolf's ritual work to secure guaranteed academy placement?"