Page 62 of Feral Fates
He pats me on my shoulder. “Come, let’s get you some breakfast.”
As I follow him silently back to our den, I know he speaks true. Which worries me far more than any vision I’ve ever had.
Inside the smallStrategy Chamber sits a massive stone table that dominates the space. Its surface is carved into a topographical representation of the region. Small markers in various colors indicate pack boundaries, patrol routes, and defensive positions.
When Ryker and I enter, the chamber is already filled with wolves of various ranks. I recognize Lithia and Elias at the head of the table, along with Elder Lyra and several others whose names I’m still learning. Zella stands among a group that’s off to one side, observing rather than participating in the discussion.
Conversations halt as we approach, all eyes turning to us. To my surprise, the wolves bow not just to Ryker but to me as well—acknowledgment of my position.
“Let’s begin,” Ryker commands as we take our places at the head of the table.
Lithia nods, stepping forward. “Border patrols have been doubled, focusing on the three most likely approach vectors based on the Alpha Female’s vision.” Her silver eyes meet mine. “We’ve installed early warning systems with scent markers that will trigger if crossed.”
“The tunnel network?” Ryker asks.
“Secured,” Elias confirms. “We’ve collapsed all secondary entrances, leaving only the main passages. They’re rigged for controlled detonation if needed.”
I listen carefully, trying to absorb the military terminology and strategic concepts being discussed. Through our bond, I sense Ryker’s focus, his careful consideration of each aspect being presented.
“What of our allies?” Ryker asks, directing the question to a lean wolf I don’t recognize.
“The Ghost River Pack confirms support,” the wolf replies. “They can provide thirty fighters. The Mountain Striders another twenty. Both will arrive within three days.”
“Not enough,” Lithia states flatly. “Thaddeus brings hundreds.”
“Quality over quantity,” Ryker counters. “These are wolves who’ve fought alongside us before. They understand what’s at stake.” He turns back to the lean wolf. “And the other packs?”
“We’re still working on them, Alpha.”
Ryker nods once. “Keep discussions moving forward, Thomas. Whatever you need, you can have it.”
The discussion continues, discussing supplies, weapons, evacuation plans for the youngest and oldest members of the pack. I’m struck by the thoroughness of their preparations—clearly, the Shadowmist wolves have faced existential threats before.
“And what of the Alpha Female’s gift?” Elder Lyra asks, her weathered face turning toward me. “What role will it play in our defense?”
All eyes shift to me, expectant. I straighten my spine, forcing myself not to shrink under their collective gaze.
“I can monitor Thaddeus’s planning,” I say, my voice steadier than I expected. “See adjustments to his strategy as they form. And during the battle itself, I can try to anticipate movements, provide real-time intelligence.”
“Try?” Levi challenges from farther down the table. “Our lives will depend on more than possibilities.”
Before Ryker can intervene, I meet Levi’s gaze directly. “My gift has been growing stronger since the claiming. But yes, there are still limitations—silver dust clouds my sight, as does the new moon’s phase.” I lift my chin. “I won’t promise what I can’t deliver with certainty.”
A murmur runs through the gathered wolves—notdisapproval, I realize, but something closer to respect for my honesty.
“Well said.” Elder Lyra nods. “Better truth than false comfort.”
“Kitara will continue training with me,” Ryker states, his tone making it clear the matter is settled. “Her gift, combined with our territorial knowledge and fighting skills, gives us the edge we need.”
Lithia clears her throat. “With respect, Alpha, we should discuss worst-case scenarios. If we’re overrun?—”
“We won’t be,” Ryker cuts her off.
“But if we are,” she persists, her scarred face set with determination, “protocols must be established. Particularly for the Alpha Female.”
I tense, understanding the subtext. In wolf society, the alpha pair represents the pack’s future. If defeat seems inevitable, the Alpha Female would traditionally be evacuated to ensure the bloodline continues.
“I’m not leaving,” I say before Ryker can respond, drawing startled looks from around the table. “If the pack fights, I fight. If the pack falls, I fall with it.”
