The Dead Luna

Phoenix:

"We don’t need to worship him, Alpha Blake."

I paused and let that sink in, "But we do it smartly. No desperation, no weak position. We host, we lead. We are allies, but we control the decisions regarding our pack."

There was a moment of silence, but it wasn’t awkward. All those who were sitting there seemed impressed.

Along with others, I turned my head when Kiara chimed in, "He is the king!" she smirked, "Don’t you think with this stupid ’no desperation’ and ’no weak’ position analogy we can end up looking like fools? If we make him stay in one of our best quarters, assign him some of our beautiful slaves, and make him happy, then he might donate us... a big chunk. Moreover..."

Now, why do I detect that smug streak in her voice?

Seriously? Are we after his donations?

"We’ll talk about everyone’s suggestion later," I cut in with a polite smile, turning just enough to meet her eyes, "For now, let’s stay on track."

She blinked, clearly not expecting it. She was there in the meeting because we both were competing for the head warrior role.

This room only had top-ranking officials, and no lower-ranked person was allowed inside.

Alpha Blake cleared his throat, "That’s what I like about you, Phoenix. You are tough and clever— a rare combo."

***