“I’m sorry if this sounds rude, but who are you?” I asked.
What made him so special that he could get the confidence of every pack around us.
“I’m a descendant of the elder wolves. My line goes all the way back to the first wolf we’ve ever known. Because of this, I’m partly responsible for the actions of every pack.”
“Because we border your territory?”
“Essentially, yes. We have connections in every pack, unions if you will. Some of my own wolves have joined other packs by finding mates of their own, which is what connects us all. So while Coren may have gathered all of the packs in the region, my word is the only one you’ll ever need.”
“Being a wolf is complicated.”
He laughed at that. “So are humans. Think of it as our form of government.”
“Is that why your pelt is white?”
“That’s purely a coincidence.”
“Will you join us for our gathering?” Ash asked, speaking up before I could do the same.
“As much as I adore the invitation, I think it might be best for us to get this over with, don’t you?”
Ash looked at me with worry in her eyes. “Are you sure you can do this?”
“We don’t have a choice,” I said.
“Your Alpha should be able to calm your wolf,” Zander said, “and if not, I’ll help where I can.”
Nodding, I thanked him for his help, then turned for the house.
“She’s going to run,” Coren called out.
“I’m getting my things,” I corrected him. “I can’t walk into the city looking like this, now can I?”
“She’s got you there,” Zander laughed.
“And that’s true for all of us,” Ash agreed. “Zander, come with me. I should have something in your size.”
“I appreciate it.”
With Zander accompanying us, the other wolves dispersed, keeping to the trees until he called on them again.
Fallen was waiting for us as soon as we walked through the doors. “Zander,” she said with surprise, immediately bowing her head. “It’s an honor.”
“It’s been a long time, Fallen. I hope you’re well.”
“I am.”
“Keeping out of trouble?” he teased, noting the exchanged glances between us. “I see. Well, don’t let Coren get wind of that. I’m all for happy wolves, but not until after this is cleared up.”
“Thank you,” we said in unison, watching him go as Ash guided him toward her office.
“What now?” Fallen asked. “I barely heard a word.”
“I’m going to the city.”
Chapter Twenty-One
The stench of ammonia and bleach hit me before we reached the front doors, causing my wolf to bristle in response.