The Luna's Second Chance

Chapter 41: A Queen, a Promise, and a New Beginning

**Isla's POV**

The sun bathed Blackwood Ridge in a soft, warm glow, the light reflecting off the trees, creating a sense of peace that Isla hadn't felt in weeks. But even with the serenity of the morning, there was a heavy air of anticipation lingering in the pack house. The royal carriage had arrived, and the **Princess** was here to speak with her.

Isla stood by the window, her mind still caught in the whirlwind of everything that had happened-the battle, Kian's coma, and the loss they had all endured. She had barely slept since the fight, her thoughts constantly drifting to her brother's still form in the hospital. But today wasn't about that. Today, it was about facing the aftermath and moving forward.

A soft knock came at the door, and before Isla could respond, the princess herself entered, flanked by her royal guards. Princess Lila, though always radiant, looked different now. The weight of leadership had settled over her shoulders, but there was a quiet strength in her eyes.

"Isla," Lila greeted warmly, her voice soft but commanding. "I've come to thank you."

Isla turned to face her, surprised by the warmth in the princess's expression. "Thank me?"

Lila smiled, her eyes gleaming with sincerity. "For what you've done for the werewolf kingdom. Your courage, your strength, and your willingness to fight... it saved us all." She paused, her voice growing quieter. "The Alpha King, my father, passed away not long after the battle. The dark magic... it was too much for him."

Isla's heart sank at the news, and she felt a pang of sorrow for Lila, who had not only lost her father but now had to bear the responsibility of the throne.

"I'm so sorry," Isla whispered, stepping closer to offer her condolences.

Lila nodded, her expression somber, but then she took a deep breath and smiled-a smile that was filled with a quiet determination. "But in his final moments, he gave me his blessing. The kingdom needs a leader, and though I mourn him, I'm ready to take on that role. I've been declared the new queen, Isla."

Isla felt a swell of emotion in her chest as she realized the significance of the moment. Lila, the princess who had been there through so much, was now the queen-the leader the werewolf kingdom needed.

"You'll be a great queen," Isla said softly, her voice filled with admiration.

Lila's smile widened, and she reached out to place a hand on Isla's arm. "And I'll never forget what you and your family have done for us. The kingdom owes you a debt we can never repay."

With that, Lila turned and gestured to her guards, who nodded and began to prepare for departure. Before leaving, she gave Isla one last smile. "Take care of yourself, Isla. You've earned your rest."

As the princess left, the room fell quiet, and Isla stood there, her thoughts swirling. She hadn't thought much about what came next, but now, with the war behind them and Lila ascending to the throne, maybe it was time to start thinking about herself-about her future.

---

**Damian's POV**

After the princess's departure, Damian found Isla alone in the pack house, her eyes distant as she stared out the window. He knew she was exhausted, her mind still wrapped up in everything that had happened. But he also knew that she needed a break, a moment to breathe.

"You should rest," Damian said softly as he approached her.

Isla turned to face him, her eyes soft but weary. "I can't rest. There's too much to think about."

"Then let me help," Damian offered, his voice filled with warmth. "Come with me."

Isla hesitated for a moment, clearly conflicted, but eventually, she nodded. "Okay."