Chapter 179: Used
She won’t," Reana interrupted smoothly. "The mine has been dormant for decades. Even Alpha Killian knows nothing about it, and that’s because it has no purpose to us. Yet.
"The goddess gave us that crystal not to hoard it, but to wield its power wisely. The humans can help us refine it. In turn, they will protect it as their own."
Elder Thomas folded his arms, unconvinced. "And what happens when they want more? When their greed outweighs their gratitude?"
"They won’t get more than we give," Reana said firmly. "This alliance will be bound by a sacred pact... and human greed, while it’s real, is predictable. What’s not predictable is the enemy watching from the shadows. The more eyes we have on our borders - be it the humans or wolves - the better."
"You’re gambling with our traditions," muttered Elder Beth.
"I’m protecting our future," Reana replied. "Traditions change. They have to, or we die clinging to them while the world moves on."
"And merging packs? With West Wood? You want to absorb a dying pack that can barely hold its own territory? Isn’t that dangerous?" Elder Thomas frowned.
The West Wood Pack was his mate’s pack. He didn’t know how she’d feel about it merging with the Black Moon Pack.
"I want to absorb their people before they become corpses," Reana answered without missing a beat. "They are our kin, our blood. Altogether they betrayed our forefathers and separated from us, our blood still runs in their veins.
"They’re not entirely useless. With structure, they can thrive. With our guidance, they can fight. Right now, they are a broken blade. I intend to reforge them."
A hush fell over the room.