Page 53 of Ascendant Moon
“Our former pack has been turning humans since the first group arrived in León generations ago. It was necessary to provide mates for our people, and the process is both easy and safe. We didn’t know that the knowledge had been lost elsewhere until Jack was told during his visit. He consulted with our senior True Elder, Hector, and then with Hezekiah in the Afterworld to confirm it.”
Sheppard growled ominously and then sat back in his chair to take a deep breath. Luna only knew where this jog in the road would take them, but he’d heard worse in this line of work. He turned to look at Jack once more.
“Why tell me now? Who else knows about this?”
Jack fully understood the man’s consternation, since they’d all been under the false assumption that the issue was long-settled.
“At their request, both RJ Wilson and Gray Claw were turned a few days ago and are now adjusting to their new lives. I wanted to wait until the process was complete before informing you, Sir, so that I could present a full report. As to who knows, only Gladstone, Alpha Cruz, and Walter Denali. No one else will be told until the American Council makes policy.”
Sheppard swiped a hand across his face, heaving a frustrated sigh.
“Forgive me, but the ramifications of this new knowledge are profound and concern me greatly. I have many questions, but before we go any further, I would like to hear from Doctor Follett.”
Donna shared her own initial shock and fear when the news was first announced, outlined the simple process, and summarized her observations.
“Both RJ and Gray have claimed their mates, are adapting to their new senses, and are learning how to control their lupine impulses around humans. Jack and I have prepared a detailed summary for your perusal, including the benefits, dangers, and recommended safeguards. Since turnings have been practiced for all but our recent history, I believe it can be a useful tool in our increased interaction with the human population.”
Sheppard paused to think for a moment, grappling with competing scenarios—many of which frightened him. Setting them aside for now, he lifted his head to address the group once more.
“If you could send your recommendations today, it would give me a more complete picture of the situation. You also have my sincere thanks for keeping the news contained, as it allows me time for careful consideration. Ben, please remind your pack members to keep this quiet for now. Jack, I realize you have only recently returned home, but your presence may be necessary when I present this issue to the council.
“Evan, I have a special request. As you know, Colton Ramsey and his family will arrive at Gladstone on the eighteenth. Since he will most likely be remaining in Duluth and become part of thecouncil, he should know about turning humans—though only if you think he is ready for such information. I don’t wish to place more responsibility on him than he can handle, and will follow your recommendations closely. I may be biased, but he strikes me as a remarkable young man, despite his age, and I have high hopes for our future working relationship.”
When Sheppard asked if there were any other issues to discuss, Jack brought up the four-pack’s request for assistance.
“Gray, and our brothers from Mexico, are seeking a place to live and work on or near Diné lands. According to Walter Denali, an opportunity exists to purchase an existing business, but the group lacks the necessary funds and are hoping that the American and Mexican councils will assist them.”
Alpha Sheppard’s request for more information prompted Sergio to describe Luna’s rather detailed dream of their growing pack. Dante followed up with the idea of establishing their new home on a ranch, much like the Chihuahua pack had done—giving them privacy and the ability to keep tabs on natural Lobo packs. Sheppard’s pleased expression revealed his interest in the idea.
“Obviously, you have given it a great deal of thought, but consider this—your pack would be the only one in that region of the country, and rather isolated. There are dangers to consider and great caution will be required to keep your true natures hidden. That being said, neither I nor the American Council will stand in Luna’s way, and I will contact Alpha Cruz to discuss your request for financial aid. Jack, if you will provide Walter Denali’s number, I believe this plan requires his input as well.
“As to the legal documents we’ve been working on, you can expect a private courier to deliver them tomorrow. I alsoreceived, and granted, Jonah’s request for pregnancy leave, and his temporary replacement will join you no later than this weekend. My office will forward details to you shortly. Ben, please give him and RJ my very best wishes during this exciting time in their lives.”
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Meanwhile, downtown Gladstone
Scooter’s first day on the job had been uneventful, though he’d learned a lot from Lou. Both their stomachs rumbled ominously as they pulled in at the Dewdrop, and Scooter noted other law enforcement and first responder vehicles parked nearby. For almost seventy years, the diner had proudly served meals and breaks to Delta County’s finest. Now it was shifter-owned, served the best food in town, and nobody blinked an eye when they packed it in.
Scooter followed Lou inside the restored and expanded establishment, awash with overlapping conversations and the overwhelming scent of food. As usual, they were greeted by Darlene—a friendly gum-chewing bundle of energy with an attitude.
“Well, look who’s here! Nothing finer than a handsome man in uniform. Follow me boys; I got the perfect table all ready for you.”
As they sat down, Darlene handed them menus, rattled off the day’s special, and winked at Scooter.
“I hear this is your first day on the job, Sugar, so this one’s on the house. Ruby will be right over to take your order, and I hope to see you again real soon.”
The woman had a way with people, and both men chuckled softly as she went to greet another hungry customer. Ruby soon came over to say hello and find out what they wanted for lunch. While they waited for their meals, Scooter started the conversation.
“I wasn’t sure if it was okay to talk about personal things while we’re on duty, but is it all right during breaks?”
Lou lowered his voice and put the nervous beginner at ease.
“It depends on the subject matter, though even talking about our work can be tricky since we deal with private or privileged information. If you aren’t sure, always err on the side of caution. Remember that your fellow officers don’t know what you and I might overhear, so be careful not to react. After a few weeks, you’ll get the hang of it. Now, was there something in particular you wanted to mention?”
Having superior senses provided shifters with a boatload of information that humans would miss. Scooter had to remember that the rules at work or in public were much different than at home on packlands. His question wasn’t anything unusual, though.
“I just wondered how Donna was feeling. She’s due any time now, right?”
