Thaddeus leaned back in his chair and sighed. “So much for enjoying my newly mated status. I naively assumed things would return to somewhat normal after Morpheus’ death, despite his claims of having a master.”

“At least you’re not hiding your head in the grave dirt and ignoring it.” A reference to those left in the Vampire Council who thought themselves too grand to get involved in what they called “filthy dog affairs.”

“Someone has to act, or we’ll all be ashes in the wind.” Thaddeus grimaced. “On to other things. How did your Lycans acquit themselves?”

“Not mine,” she retorted, and to herself,Not yet.“They did very well, actually. No hesitation. They worked as a team, both tracking the target and then taking out the surprise nest.”

“I noticed you left one of them behind.”

“Omar.” Her lips twisted. “He is definitely not warrior material. He’s very different from his brother. Of the four we brought back, I don’t see him staying.”

“I figured that might be the case, hence why I’ve already placed a block on his mind, preventing him from spilling any secrets.”

“I’m surprised you’re even thinking of letting him leave,” she admitted. Despite the claim the Lycans were free to go, they had to be cautious.

“Amir will make a good soldier for the coming conflict. However, his loyalty to us would be tested and possibly shattered should something happen to his brother at our hands.”

“Whatever compulsion you placed on Omar to keep our secrets better be a good one. The boy is weak.”

“Are you questioning my ability?” He arched a brow.

“Never, boss.”

“There’s always a chance he’ll instead come around.”

Her lips twisted. “Doubtful. What’s next?”

“A shower for you.” Thaddeus eyed her gore spattered outfit. “Then, rest. Depending on what Pierrot finds, you may have to travel with your new posse to investigate.”

“You’re still determined to stick me with them, aren’t you?” she complained, even as she’d warmed to the idea.

“Given what’s happening, I’d feel better knowing you have protection, especially since you sleep like the dead.” His lips quirked.

“What if Pierrot doesn’t find anything?”

“Then it might be time to find out what’s actually happening with the packs, given Nathan’s acting stand-offish. Two of your new bodyguards should still have ties to theirs. Have they spoken to their alpha?”

“I’m not sure, but I could find out. Do you want them to get in touch?”

“Yes, but it isn’t a conversation that should be conducted on the phone.”

She frowned at the idea of ordering Cyrus and Diego away. “Is it safe sending just the two of them, given we know loners are still being snatched?”

“It wouldn’t be just the two. You’ll all go.”

That picture satisfied, except, “When you say all, does that include Omar?” Her lip curled even asking.

“Bring him only if he expresses interest. Maybe he’ll stay with them instead of returning.”

“You do realize this pack likely won’t let me, or Amir for that matter, inside their compound?”

“If they don’t, then at least you’ll be nearby, should trouble arise.”

Sasha eyed Thaddeus, for he didn’t give orders without reason. “You think there’s something wrong with Cyrus and Diego’s pack.”

“Call it a hunch,” his less than loquacious reply.

“What should they tell their alpha if they’re granted a meeting?”