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"Orion," the moon goddess spoke again, her tone carrying a weight of authority.

"Ailana," Orion replied, his voice steady but laced with a subtle edge.

Astraea watched in silence, feeling like an outsider caught in the midst of a silent battle between two powerful beings. The atmosphere crackled with unspoken tension, each word exchanged between Orion and the moon goddess fraught with underlying meaning.

The moon goddess said, glancing at Astraea with a mixture of concern and curiosity. "I see you have brought a companion."

"Yes, she is my mate," Orion firmly answered, seemingly daring the moon goddess to question his decision.

Although Astraea was overcome with pride at Orion's statement, she could feel a conflict building beneath the surface that could explode at any time.

The moon goddess's lips curved into a knowing smile, her eyes glinting with a hint of amusement. "A werewolf as your mate, Orion? How...unexpected."

Orion squared his shoulders, clenching his jaw and hardeni