Page 73 of Feral Fates
“Could they know we’re aware of their plans?” Elias asks. “Perhaps this is an adjustment to our foreknowledge.”
I consider this possibility. “I don’t think so. The messenger would have been dispatched before my most recent visions of their movements.”
“Then it’s definitely a trap,” Kaden concludes, unusuallyserious. “The question is, what kind, and is it one worth walking into?”
Ryker stands at the head of the table, power radiating from his massive frame. “Opinions. Starting with Lithia.”
His second straightens. “I advise caution but engagement. Attend with a strong escort. Use the meeting to gather intelligence on their forces. At minimum, it delays their attack while giving us additional preparation time.”
“Elias?”
The security chief frowns. “Too risky. Thaddeus wouldn’t offer truce unless he believed it served his advantage. I recommend declining with diplomatic language that doesn’t close the door entirely.”
“Zella?”
She glances at me before addressing Ryker. “I suggest a compromise. Accept the summit but send representatives rather than attending yourself. The Alpha is too valuable to risk in what’s likely a trap.”
Murmurs of agreement follow her suggestion, but I feel Ryker’s immediate rejection through our bond. He doesn’t send others into danger he himself won’t face.
“Elder Lyra?” Ryker turns to the oldest wolf present.
The elder studies him with knowing eyes. “You must go,” she says simply. “But not alone, and not unprotected. Take a small force of your most trusted. Leave the majority here to prepare for what follows, regardless of the summit’s outcome.”
Ryker nods, and I know her assessment aligns with his own instincts. “Kitara?” he asks, looking to me. “What do you advise?”
“I believe we should accept,” I say after careful consideration. “But I should accompany you.”
Immediate protest erupts, voices overlapping in objection. Ryker raises a hand, silencing them with the simple gesture.
“Explain,” he prompts me.
“My gift could prove invaluable during negotiations. I might sense deception, see intentions hidden behind diplomatic words.” I meet his gaze steadily. “And more importantly, Thaddeus wants me. My presence may distract him, make him less cautious. If he breaks the truce, then no wolf will stand with him—the laws are what binds the wolves.”
“It will make you a target,” Lithia counters.
“I already am a target,” I remind her. “But one who now has means to protect herself.”
“If I may,” Zella interjects, her expression earnest. “I’ve been training with the Alpha Female. Her progress is remarkable, but a battlefield or diplomatic confrontation is different from controlled practice.” She looks to me with apologetic eyes. “I recommend against placing her in unnecessary danger.”
Before I can respond, Levi speaks.
“For once, I agree with the Alpha Female,” he says, surprising everyone. “Thaddeus’s obsession with seers is well-documented. Her presence changes the dynamic in ways that could benefit our position.”
The debate continues, perspectives shifting as various scenarios are explored. Through it all, Ryker remains silent, absorbing every viewpoint while his own decision forms. I feel it taking shape—certainty crystallizing from the chaos of possibilities.
“Enough,” he finally says, commanding immediate silence. “We will accept Thaddeus’s offer. I will attend, along with a small escort of elite fighters.” His eyes meet mine. “And yes, the Alpha Female will accompany me.”
I want to sink with relief, grateful he won’t leave me behind.
Thank you.
He shakes his head silently.I don’t want to put you in harm’s way, but you’re right. You can help more there, than here.
I know what it costs him to admit that—and to put me in danger. Under the table, my hand finds his, squeezing.
The others accept his decision in varying degrees, though I notice Zella’s lingering concern as the council disperses to prepare for the summit.
“You’re certain about this?” she asks, catching me in the corridor afterward. “Thaddeus is dangerous, especially to someone with your gift.”
