Page 55 of Father of the Wolf

“So, they haven’t been here long?” Steve asked, still not comprehending their longevity.

In total seriousness, Sgrios answered, “Only about a thousand years. But the Bear Clan is the eldest clan in this country.”

The thought of three generations in a thousand years left Steve gasping in shock.

Sgrios ignored him. “Many think Belquavir should be leader. If not him, then Bequlf. But certainly not Sandulfr, who has a human mother. Sandulfr is a man of honor and has led them well for nearly a century. He and his mate are the right alphas for leadership.”

“They came across the ocean with the Norsemen,” Dàn said. “Belquavir is a direct descendant of one of the eldest lines within any of the clans. His is a pure blood, with no known human mates. Many feel this is proof of his strength, and that he should lead because of it.”

“Belquavir is greedy, not evil. But Bequlf has a cruel streak and enjoys abusing the power he has over others,” Sgrios continued. “Belquavir will never see that in him, regardless of how many people he hurts or kills.”

“Bequlf has gone that bad?” Ella asked.

“Without a doubt,” Dàn said, surprising everyone with his vehemence.

Ella looked at him, “I would rather this dispute not become an outright battle. Do you think we can work a truce between Belquavir and Sandulfr?”

“Not one that will hold,” Dàn said. “But we can give Sandulfr time to organize his own defense and perhaps prevent Bequlf from claiming the role of Alpha.”

“Even buying time with a truce would be worthwhile,” Ella said,

‘This will put the Eagle Clan against the traitors. We will be forced into the battle if we aid with the truce. We shouldn’t be alone in a decision that will affect everyone’s future,” Athair said. “One of us should contact the rest of the clan. Although I think Acair will agree to help stop Belquavir and Bequlf, after what was done to Rath and Dàn.”

“Díon is particularly good at stealth. He can sneak past the traitors and travel back to the clan,” said Reultan.

“It took us several weeks to get here. We do not have that much time,” Athair said. “Someone should also go speak with Sandulfr to be sure he will accept our plans.”

“He is hunting for Bequlf and the others now,” Dàn said with his eyes still closed.

Sgrios volunteered, “I’ll go to the Bear Clan to speak with Sandulfr.” When Athair started to argue, he continued, “I am the only option. Sandulfr will not listen to the young ones, and you are not going. That leaves me. I can make him listen.”

Athair looked doubtful. “Brother, you will need to be diplomatic.”

Rath chuckled. “Can you convince him of our support and assistance in gaining a truce without killing any more of them?”

“Yes,” Sgrios growled. Then he added, “Or I could just force him back here and let you play diplomat.”

“Well, that is a thought,” Athair said with a grin. “But only as a last resort.”

“Kidnapping an Alpha is not going to help this situation,” Ella said sternly.

“Could someone drive Díon back to talk with the rest of the family?” Steve asked.

“None of us can drive, yet.” Athair gave him a look.

“Actually, I can,” corrected Sgrios. “I have borrowed a few vehicles over the years. Although, I prefer motorcycles myself, but it seems I will be busy practicing diplomacy.”

“Look, I don’t want to be in the middle of a war. But I can drive,” Steve offered.

They all stared at him in surprise. Here was a human they didn’t know well, offering to help with a problem that might not affect him. After all, the war might not start in his lifetime.

“Steve, that’s an excellent idea,” Ella said. “Why don’t you get the road map from your car so we can plan the trip?”

Steve stood, smiling at her praise, and went to get the map.

As soon as he was out of earshot, Ella said, “You all know I would never place you in harm’s way. If you don’t believe that, ask Dàn. Steve is trustworthy. Yes, even to know where your family lives. Steve will not break your trust or endanger your clan.”

“Hope has already vouched for him,” Athair said. “I think it is a good idea.”

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