Side Story 4.14 - Chasing the Moon's Mercy

Jhoanna’s POV

“The sacrifice must be freely given, a bond of blood and moonlight, offered in complete trust,” it read. “The Goddess’s judgment will fall on the bloodline, sparing only those who prove their devotion through unity.”

“Unity,” I whispered aloud, drawing the room’s attention.

“What is it, Jhoanna?” Hans asked, his hand brushing my arm.

I pointed to the passage, my heart racing. “It’s not just about the individual sacrifice. The Goddess is testing the bloodline itself. This isn’t just about Luna Tilly, or Uncle Aidan and Jayden—it is about Crescent Moon as a whole. The sacrifice must reflect their unity as a pack, their willingness to stand together no matter the cost.”

Luna Tilly’s eyes widened, hope flickering in their depths. “You mean... it doesn’t have to be