Chapter 2 Author: CleoSmileXXX What else could I do but walk down the ceremonial platform? Each step felt like walking on the edge of a blade. The crowd instinctively parted to make way for me, their gazes a mix of pity and contempt. I had once been the pride of the pack-the Alpha's daughter. Now I was nothing but a liar in their eyes, an imposter exposed under the harshest light. Their mating ceremony continued flawlessly. Leon, the strongest Beta in the Black Stone Pack, and Mia, now revealed as the Alpha's true daughter, their bond had been blessed by the Moon Goddess. A glowing silver light shimmered around them, soft but divine, pulsing with sacred power. The pack was in awe. "It's been years since we've seen a light this bright." "This is a true blessing, which proves the Moon Goddess approves their union." "What a perfect match. Our future is secure now." My father raised his voice to declare the ceremony complete, and slowly, the crowd dispersed. No one looked back. No one remembered the rituals that had once belonged to me. The day that should have been mine had been rewritten into a celebration for them. My father didn't spare me even a glance. He walked away with Mia's child in his arms, smiling faintly, as if he had finally found the child who truly belonged to him. I watched them go, and at last, I understood. In this world, blood is everything. Leon approached. His face, once familiar, was now cold and distant. "Pauline," he said flatly, "for the sake of our childhood, I'll give you a word of advice. Leave the pack willingly." "You're no longer the Alpha's daughter. Staying here will only bring more shame." I looked at him, my heart felt heavy. "Do you really believe I lied to you? That blood alone defines the truth?" He let out a bitter laugh. "What other explanation is there? Your Alpha aura is gone. Mia carries the bloodline. She is the true heir, my true Mate."