Single Mother of a Werewolf Baby novel Chapter 120

Chapter 120: All Rise!

While the council members were quietly thinking about how they could showcase their clans’ capabilities during the mourning period, Prince Erevan Brontes Lychos was thinking of how to end the meeting as quickly as possible and go inform his mother.

Though, as High Luna of the werewolves, she had every right to know about her husband’s death before anyone else, Erevan feared she might not be able to control herself. If she broke down, the news would likely spread through the palace staff and leak to the public before the council officially concluded their session.

In werewolf society, the wife of the King is given the title of High Luna, while the husband of a Queen is known as the High Alpha. In the absence of a monarch, the High Luna or High Alpha is allowed to temporarily act as regent until a new king or queen is officially appointed by the council. However, if there is already a named heir apparent, the High Luna or High Alpha retains their royal status and stipend but does not hold ruling authority.

The silence was broke as the Matron, Dalisay Mayari Cordillera, rose from her seat. Her voice was firm but respectful as she addressed the council, "I must remind everyone that, during the official mourning period, all forms of marriage ceremonies and festive celebrations are strictly prohibited. Only sacred rituals may be conducted during this time. I suggest we send a formal notification of this tradition to every clan to prevent any misunderstandings."

Prince Erevan nodded. "Agreed. I will issue a formal directive outlining the rules of conduct during the mourning period. Matron Dalisay and Lorekeeper Baatar, I’d like both of you to assist my secretary in preparing this message."

"Understood," they both replied in unison.

Ambassador Fiona Elizabeth Raynor spoke next. "Should we send a message to the werewolves currently living in the other world to inform them of the king’s passing?"

The prince answered, "Yes, I believe we should. Many of my father’s allies and friends are still in the other world, having chosen to extend their lives there. They deserve to know of his death."

Fiona gave a small nod. "Very well. I’ll handle the arrangements to make sure the message reaches them all."

As she sat down, the Arbiter, Matthias Halden Graventhal, stood and addressed the room. "Do we have any laws concerning duels or criminal punishments during the mourning period? For instance, what if a duel results in death, or someone is sentenced to execution?"

The Judicator, Ren Tsuki Kuroda, responded with his usual calm precision. "There are no restrictions on delivering justice or resolving disputes through duels. However, all death sentences must be deferred. If a duel leads to death... even by accident... the killer will be sentenced the same, but the execution will be postponed until the end of the mourning period. Likewise, those judged guilty of capital crimes will have their sentences delayed. Beyond that, any event resembling a celebration... birthdays, New Year’s parties, full moon gatherings... are prohibited."

A quiet murmur of agreement rippled through the council. Just as silence was settling again, the Priest, Sarika Somavati Harivamsa, stood, her expression solemn.

"Council members, we have a constitutional concern that must be addressed." Her tone was reverent yet direct.

"Though we have worked under the leadership of His Highness the Prince for the past thirty years, it is important to remember that he held the title of Heir Apparent. Now that His Majesty the King has passed, the prince is no longer an heir... but not yet a king either."

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