Dana POV

　　I couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy for Mariel, a recognition of the complexities that lay beneath the surface of her betrayal. Yet, even right now, I remained steadfast in my belief that there was more to her story than met the eye.

　　"Due to your astuteness, you were able to evade her scheme successfully, yet consider the alternate scenario: had you not discerned her intentions, what dire consequences might have befallen you?" His hand gently met my cheek, radiating warmth that comforted me.

　　"I might have risked losing you and our unborn child," he murmured, his other hand tenderly resting on my abdomen, prompting a nod of agreement from me as my gaze softened toward him.

　　"I believe in my ability to safeguard both of us, including our baby," I reassured him, reciprocating the gesture by touching his cheek affectionately.

　　"In contemplating her punishment, my inclination leans towards a form of exile from our pack. Let her be cast out, but let's not amplify the consequences beyond that. Allowing her to drift into the realm of rogue existence, where she's stripped of the comforts and support of our community, seems fitting," I articulated, my hand providing solace as I gently caressed his neck, his eyes remaining shut.

　　Upon reopening them, he emitted a quiet, contemplative "Hmm," signifying his agreement.

　　"Your input is invaluable," he responded, his tone reflective. "I recognize your discernment in this matter, and I trust your judgment implicitly. Rest assured, I'll take measures to fortify our defenses in light of this decision," he assured, evoking a warm smile from me, reassured by his support and understanding.

　　"Indeed, it is," I chuckled in agreement.

　　As we stepped out of the pack house, a crowd had gathered, their eyes fixed on the scene unfolding before them. Adrian and Rafael held the servants at bay, positioned prominently in the center of the pack grounds.

　　All attention shifted towards us as we made our way towards the gathering, and a warrior swiftly provided Bathel and me with seats. Taking our places in the regal-looking chairs, we watched in solemn observation as the servants cried out, their distress palpable in the air.

　　"This servant," Bathel's voice rang out, commanding attention from the gathered crowd, "callously attempted to harm my mate, a deed that could have escalated into a far more perilous situation. Fortunately, her nefarious intentions were thwarted." Murmurs rippled through the assembly, with whispers about Mariel circulating among the onlookers.

　　"She deserves nothing less than execution," someone voiced, their words prompting a weary sigh from me.

　　Expressing his stance, Bathel continued his tone firm, "I advocate for a punishment befitting her crime - a sentence that exacts the toll of her life, confined to the depths of our dungeon until her very existence withers away. However, the future Luna of our pack has decreed exile as the punishment. She must be banished from our midst, never to return."

　　Mariel's eyes widened with fury as she attempted to shift into her wolf form, a low growl rumbling from her throat. Yet, before she could complete the transformation, Adrian and Rafael swiftly intervened, howling fiercely into her ear, causing her to recoil in distress with a sharp yelp.

　　"That's the correct course of action," one voice chimed in, echoing the sentiment of approval.

　　"We have no place for traitors among us," another voice asserted, the disdain palpable in the tone.

　　"No one here has any fondness for her, anyway," a third voice added, the collective disdain evident in the murmurs of agreement that followed.

　　Amidst the background murmur, Mariel's cries and pleas pierced through the air, her tears flowing freely as she begged for understanding.

　　"Please, you misunderstand me!" she cried out, desperation evident in her voice. The intensity in her eyes hinted at an impending emotional eruption.

　　"Remove her from the pack at once. Should she dare to return, let her life be forfeit," Bathel's voice rang out, decisive and unwavering. With his command, Drake and Rafael finally released their hold on her, allowing her to be escorted away from the pack grounds.

　　With a nod from Bathel, indicating for me to address the situation, I spoke firmly, my tone leaving no room for negotiation.

　　"Leave now, before I decide to revoke the mercy extended to you," I commanded, my voice carrying the weight of authority. Without hesitation, Mariel seized the opportunity and fled, disappearing into the distance in haste.

　　Anna and Divine arrived moments too late, their steps faltering as they approached us, the scene unfolding before them already resolved.

　　"What's going on?" Anna's voice trembled with uncertainty as she observed the servant's hurried departure from the pack.

　　"This," I replied, my tone icy and devoid of warmth, "is becoming my new norm." My words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of recent events and the changes they had wrought upon our familiar surroundings.

　　Anna and Divine collaborated closely, diligently ensuring my safety within the pack's confines. They meticulously scrutinized every servant and omega, laying the groundwork to swiftly identify any potential threats should another attack be attempted. Despite their efforts, I couldn't shake the lingering fear of a recurrence.

　　Although I hadn't yet been officially declared as the Luna, the weight of recent events pressed heavily upon me. Alone in the dressing room, attempting to compose myself and my appearance, I found solace in the quiet solitude.

　　"You were correct. This is merely the start," Xia's voice resonated softly, her words a solemn reminder of the challenges that lay ahead.

　　"I have to cope with it," I affirmed, determination firm in my voice. "Whatever challenges may come, I am committed to becoming Bathel's wife. There's no turning back now. I can't abandon my love." My fingers raked through my hair, a nervous gesture betraying the turmoil within.

　　Suddenly, the door swung open, revealing Bathel's unexpected presence despite his pressing meeting with the elders.

　　"What are you doing here?" I asked, concern evident in my tone as I noted his departure from his scheduled obligations.