EmoryI have met the Alphas of other packs over the years. Some of them have visited Moon Grove and my father took the family with him to visit the other packs often. The visits grew less frequent over time as my father collected more enemies than allies. I know that our pack used to be on good term
“You have old Nigel here to thank for your existence,” Mary Claire concludes. “And I’m sure he will never let you forget it.”Nigel winks at me. “You’re welcome.”I share amused looks with Coit who is stuck listening to Alpha Gerald recount that time he and his brothers took down a grizzly bear when
“We all have great respect for your grandfather, and that’s why most of us have shown up today, despite our history with your father,” Alpha Nigel explains. “Asking us to go to war for you is a big request.”“And from what I’ve heard, you and the vampire king are more than allies,” Alpha Gerald adds
KaneEmory has left for Moon Grove to persuade the other shifter packs into becoming our allies. I try not to be too hopeful that she’ll succeed, not because I have no faith in her but because the enmity between our species has been around for far longer than Emory has been alive. It will take a lot
“Father trusted you to always give him the best advice,” I point out. “And you did. From what I’ve heard, you’re the reason there was less bloodshed between us and the shifters.”“I never saw the reason to antagonize the wolves. While we may be stronger and faster, the tides can always change. There
“No.” I get up from my seat abruptly, causing dishes and cutlery to rattle on the table. “I do not want to hear your excuses. We did monstrous things. There is no excuse for any of that.”I leave without turning back. My mother calls out for me. I ignore her.She’s not the one I need to talk to.*
EmoryI don’t immediately return to Crimson Peak. I take a few days to iron out the alliances with the other Alphas before they return to their villages. All the excitement from the previous days finally hits me, and I need to rest. My mother calls for a pack healer to come to the mansion for a chec
I’m glad I don’t have to be alone for this. When my mother wasn’t speaking to me, I thought I would have to be alone for my first shift. It’s a terrifying and lonely thought. I’m relieved I’ll be surrounded by my pack.I spend the next few days in bed, trying to rest up and take the healer’s advice.