Running with the Pack - 30. Chapter 30

“Who authorized the attack on three packs?” Jean-Pierre growled at his top lieutenants who lined both sides of the conference table. He read over the reports listing hardware lost, people and property captured, and casualties incurred. “Are you telling me we lost over one hundred men, plus nearly fifty ferals?” He threw the report across the room. His fury seethed and eyes flashed as he wanted to rip out the throats of all those seated around him. “I’m gone for twenty-four hours and this type of fuckup occurs. This is a business. You know, one of those things that’s expected to run at a profit. This is not someone’s personal little war game. We attack when we have the advantage. WE ATTACK WHEN I SAY SO!”

“Sir, you did give me operational control while you were away at your meeting. A diversionary attack had been discussed at length as a way of increasing our odds. Our assets were in place and ready. Pulling them back unused would have caused a financial loss. I saw an opportunity and took it, sir. This didn’t turn out as bad as it might look on paper. We didn’t lose everyone and we did capture some hostages from each pack. At the very last we can try to ransom them back to cover our losses. Depending on their value, we could still make a profit or at least break even. And we don’t have to pay the men who didn’t survive.”

Jean-Pierre slammed his fist down onto the table, his voice dropped as he tried to maintain control of his rage. “According to this there were only thirty survivors and tens of thousands of dollars in equipment losses. The small number of people captured will not cover what you’ve lost me. You were told to hold off while we gained additional information from your solaris spy.”

“Sir.”

His voice lowered further to a deep growl; the right hand morphed into a paw as he closed his grip into a ball. “I told you I was unconvinced with the risk of this acquisition and was leaning towards cutting our losses. That it was not worth moving forward with this project. You brought a plan to me which I rejected as downright stupid. Even several of your colleagues here felt your idea of a diversionary attack on one or both of the other packs might put Parker Valley on alert seeing two of its neighbors come under attack at once. And guess what, it fucking did put them on alert. From this report, Parker Valley sent some of its people to reinforce each of the other packs, meaning you gave them ample time to get their own warriors ready to fight before you even entered their territory. That little diversion idea would have been fine if you could have pulled enough forces away from Parker Valley, but you didn’t, and you never would have been able to. Their alpha isn’t stupid enough to leave himself defenseless while there are two simultaneous raids going on against his neighbors. All three packs were able to effectively and quickly counter our strike. Obviously, the term element of surprise was lost on you.”

On the verge of shifting into his wolf from sheer anger, his eyes scanned the faces of the men at the table around him. “I wanted those teams in place in case the intelligence proved useful and we decided we could achieve a majority of our objectives with a minimum of losses. If that couldn’t be achieved, possibly do a hard, fast raid against one of the smaller packs in the area, but not all three. Your operative’s assessment put their response time as extremely slow, but that obviously wasn’t the case since you alerted them to a problem in the region. Did IQs significantly drop in the brief time I was away? Those teams should have been able to get in and out before the enemy could mobilize, and probably would have without that stupidly conceived diversion. From this report, only three teams made it deep into the pack and they are among the ones that didn’t escape. The perimeter units were the only ones to manage to make it out of each territory.”

Jean-Pierre grabbed another copy of the report from the lieutenant seated to his right, and glanced at it once more before slamming it back down on his desk. He took several deep breaths in an unsuccessful attempt to bring his anger under control. “Only a fool attacks a superior force without a reasonable guarantee of at least obtaining key critical targets. Only the King of Fools attacks three separate forces at once while leaving their own forces vulnerable. You remember my comments about Pearl Harbor? It would seem you failed to get the carriers, but in this case, you missed taking out the battleships and most of the fleet as well. I don’t think you even managed to sink the tug boats.”

His eyes caught sight of a highlighted mark on the report; something he missed when reading it over on his own, and not pointed out by his beta. He received a nod from the man to his right as his finger tapped over the highlighted line. “Forty-five minutes?” The brilliant amber flash in his eyes alarmed his men. “You waited forty-five fuckin’ minutes after you started the raid against the smaller packs before you sent the first person across the Parker Valley border? Why didn’t you make it easy and have our people carry white flags? FORTY-FIVE MINUTES?”

He stood and paced, the growl refusing to subside. “You’ve always been loyal since I made you my beta, but this fuckup makes me wonder if you work for me or for one of my rivals in an attempt to destroy this organization. Perhaps you see this as your chance to weaken me and move to the big chair yourself.” He stepped behind his first lieutenant, the one responsible for ordering and overseeing this disaster. Jean-Pierre grabbed the man by the throat and lifted him out of the chair and off the floor. His beta gasped for air and clawed at the paw holding him midair. With a loud, roaring growl, the gang leader threw his beta across the room where he landed against the bars to Michael’s cage. Nodding to his other lieutenants, they picked the man up and held him. “Get that out of my sight and into a cage. Make sure it’s most uncomfortable.” Two men dragged their former superior away as their alpha issued his final orders of the meeting. “Contact everyone that made it back to the logging camp, and order them to double-time it back here with their hostages. Have that solaris scum recalled as well. I want him debriefed as soon as possible. MOVE.”

******

Following his rescue by Casey and the others, Ethan was taken directly to the Tucker house where Mary and Rafe waited anxiously. Once his brother was secure in the house, Casey went to find his father who was outside talking to Darius. Cody had returned to Ethan and Aiden’s house long enough to collect their weapons and gear, before returning to the Tuckers to take up guard positions in case there was another attack.

“I fucked up, Dad. I wasn’t there when he needed me and he got taken. I shouldn’t have gone on that date.”

“You’re still young and have a lot to learn. You are able to have your own life while serving in the position you’ve taken on. You brought him home safe, so no matter what, you did your duty to your brother and friend.” Rafe returned his attention to Darius. “Why don’t you two head home. They’ve sent out the all clear. We’re at Threatcon Charlie for the next twenty-four hours at least. You’ve had a busy night and deserve the rest.”

“Sorry, sir. I realize your son is Ethan’s prime protector, and after what I saw tonight I know Casey doesn’t need our assistance. Between the two of you, there are two enforcers protecting this house. No disrespect intended, but nothing short of an order from the alpha will get me to stand down until Aiden gets here.” Darius planted his feet and crossed his arms in near challenge to the older lycan.

Cody stood beside his fellow hunter and nodded his agreement as he faced Casey. “We got your back, dude.”

The younger enforcer took the few steps to both men and pulled each into an embrace. “Thanks.”

******

Aiden was slow to wake, his head throbbed, and he was sore all over. It took him a few minutes to remember the pack was under attack. He tried to recall the details of what happened to him. All he could remember was returning from escorting warriors halfway to Ember Moon when something hit the sheriff’s truck. It left the road and plowed head-on into a tree. He was finally awake enough to open his eyes and expected to be either at home or at the medical center. Finding himself in total darkness surprised him. Trying to focus on his surroundings, he could hear nothing; the scent of other shifters was present, but none he recognized. He was unable to move his arms or legs. His mind started to wander as he thought back to the accident. Perhaps it had been worse then he remembered and he suffered major injuries. He knew there was something he was missing, but his mind was clouded. There was also a mild but persistent burning sensation on his wrists and ankles though he couldn’t imagine why.

His mind drifted to thoughts of Ethan, wishing he could have called when he headed to Ember Moon or on his return. To tell his mate to get to the Tuckers, or say “I love you” one more time. If he was in the medical center, Ethan would surely be there at his side, yet he could not pick up his pup’s scent. Unless… He did not even know if his mate was safe. The more he thought about his pup and friends, he hoped no harm had come to them. Whatever was going on, Ethan’s absence worried him. “Why can’t I keep my mind focused on what’s going on? And just what the hell is going on?”

The darkness once again consumed him as sleep took hold.

******

Grey clouds filled the sky as an eerie calm settled over Silver Pines. Mary was going over the financial books for the construction company. All the kids were home since school had been canceled for the day, and Rafe was away meeting with the alpha. Out in the yard, Darius and Cody paced in silent vigil, continually checking their phones for any updates on the previous night’s events or casualties.

When the hunters were recalled for debriefing and to complete reports on the attack, Darius’ response was blunt. “If the alpha orders me to report in, I’ll report, otherwise I’m assisting with security for a pack member who was targeted last night.”

Ethan slept in his old room. Mary had known something was wrong when there was no word from Aiden. To try and get Ethan to rest, instead of sitting up all night worrying, she slipped a little home remedy into the teen’s tea. It had been in her family for generations and never failed to let even the biggest lycan sleep for hours. She knew it was a dirty trick to give it to him like that, but did not know what else to do in the meantime. She hoped there would be some news on Aiden by the time it wore off. Hearing Rafe’s truck, she stepped out back and waited. The alpha’s truck showed up shortly after, and the two stopped to speak with Darius and Cody before heading to the house.

“Good morning, Mary.”

“John, is there any word yet?”

“Taken. That’s our hope at this point since we can’t find a body and trackers couldn’t find a trail to follow. Is he awake?”

“Last time I checked, he was still sleeping.”

“When we tell him, it might be best if everyone else is outside the house, just to be safe. There is no way to tell how he’ll handle it, or if he’ll be able to control his gifts.”

She nodded and went to tell the children to go outside for a while.

Rafe raked his fingers through his hair. “I think we need to tell him now, even if it means waking him.”

“You’re right, of course. It’s just that delivering bad news is one part of being alpha I dread.”

Mary and Rafe led the way to Ethan’s room. The door was open. Casey sat beside the bed with his hand on his brother’s shoulder. Seeing the alpha follow his parents into the room, he knew it was not good news. He gently shook the sleeping teen awake. Rubbing his eyes, Ethan sat up and looked around the room. Realizing he was at the Tucker house, the events of the previous night came flooding back to him. His eyes locked on the somber face of the alpha.

It started with barely a whisper. “No… Nooo…” The volume and anguish in his voice grew with each passing moment. “Nooo… Please… Nooo…” Until he was shouting with whispering sobs in between. “NO… NOOO! He isn’t… PLEASE NO!” A single tear rolled down Ethan’s cheek, becoming a torrent as his eyes rapidly moved between the alpha, Rafe, and Mary. “There’s only one reason you three are standing there like that. He can’t be…”

The solemn expression of the three older lycan did not bode well for it being positive news, nor did his mate’s absence. John sat on the edge of the bed. “Ethan, we don’t believe he’s dead. It looks like he was kidnapped, both him and his partner. We’ll get him back.”

The temperature in the room dropped.

“We have trackers following the scent of the people who attacked us. About an hour ago, we found what was left of their base of operation. We will eventually track them to their home. When we do, we will get our people back, including Aiden.” John did his best to sound positive, not knowing if they would see any of the missing alive again or not. Feeling the temperature continue to drop, he gently grabbed Ethan’s shoulders and locked eyes with the anguished teen. “I need you to focus right now. You’re causing it to cool big time in here, and I’m worried you’ll lose control.”

Ethan could feel the tingling of his skin indicating a shift was about to start. As fur began to spread across his face and body, the alpha used his most commanding voice. “Ethan, stop! Try and hold your control, at least for now. What do you think you’re doing?”

The shift halted at white fur covering his human body. No one in the room had ever seen anything like it.

“I’m going to find my mate!” There was an iciness to Ethan’s voice that gave John pause.

“Let us track them down. I need you to stay here.”

The fur slowly receded. “When you find them, I want to be with whoever goes to recover my mate. If I’m going to lose control, I want to direct it at the people that did this, and see just how far these gifts I have extend.” Ethan’s voice was hard and cold. His emotions reverted to the hard edge he maintained when living on the streets. The tears stopped, and he struggled to keep control of the storm raging in his mind.

Ethan’s comment and his tone sent a chill down the alpha’s spine, along with the fact the temperature in the room had easily dropped thirty degrees.

“Given that it appears you were targeted in this attack, I’m assigning Darius and Cody to assist Casey with your personal security. Darius will also act as a liaison to keep you updated on any information we get. I must insist that you don’t go anywhere without at least two of them.”

The only reaction the teen gave was a single nod.

******

Returning to his office, John called the Lycan Council regarding the attack.

“This is Alpha John Stockdale of the Parker Valley Wolf Pack, code, gamma echo one five seven theta.”

“Yes, Alpha Stockdale, how can we assist you?”

“I want President Larson.”

“He appears to be in a meeting at this time, can we—”

John did not wait for the representative to finish what he was going to say. “Fuck his alleged meeting. Tell Larson his mistress can wait to get screwed, or the other one can get off her knees from blowing him. In the unlikely event he’s not with one of them, he needs to put down the burger or steak he’s probably shoving into his face. I expect him on this call within twenty seconds.” There was silence on the other end of the phone.

“John. That was a rather rude way of—”

For a second time within minutes John interrupted someone. “James, I’m not in the mood for it right now, so shut it, and listen. I feel I have the right to be rude considering my pack, along with two of my neighbors were attacked last night by a very large rogue force.”

“Oh, umm… Have you notified Council Security of the issue yet?”

“Yes, I spoke with the director personally, for all the good that does. However I wanted to bring it up with you directly since you are the current president of the council and I didn’t feel the need to go through my pack’s representative. It’s been known for some time there are rogue gangs working out of the northeast US and eastern Canada. Council Security never seems to have any useful information beyond acknowledging a few small, unorganized groups are working the region. There were over one hundred fucking attackers that hit my pack! Plus additional attackers that hit Ember Moon and Morning Star. That’s hardly a small, unorganized gang. Intelligence happened to fall into my hands regarding certain members of the Lycan Council and the gangs. I would like to know what the council’s going to do about these attacks. Or should I start encouraging packs to withhold funding the council until it provides useful intelligence so these rogue groups can be stopped?”

“You can’t think anyone within the council had anything to do with this.”

“I’m not saying anyone there had any direct knowledge of this attack or is responsible. But I am reminding you I have information on the corruption of certain members with regard to groups like this that would probably best remain hidden. I doubt most packs would take kindly to verified information that council members have been lining their pockets at the expense of those they’re supposed to represent. As you are such a resourceful politician, I’m coming to you directly in the hopes that you can assist me in finding exactly who attacked us and where we can find our people.”

“That’s blackmail. I know you’re bluffing. If you had any evidence of the sort, you’d have brought it to me or others as soon as you found it to put a stop to the problem. I’ve known you too long for you to do otherwise.”

“That response only confirms the information I hold. You could always test if I’m bluffing. It would be bad for those involved if I’m not. Can you take that chance? Now, if I have to end up making life uncomfortable for a few elected officials to bring home our kidnapped pack members, so be it. Blackmail can be such a useful and motivational tool in politics. Don’t you think, James? You are an administrator who serves at the pleasure of the alpha congress. Don’t forget that. Election time is coming up soon. I would hate to see things turn into a bloodbath for some incumbents during the election.” There was a noticeable silence as John’s threat sank in.

“Of course, John. We’ll put the full effort of the security division into finding out who has committed this act and bring them to justice.”

“Do that!” John didn’t wait for any further response before hanging up on the agitated council president.

******

Something roused Aiden from the sleep haze. He could tell the room had become extremely bright, yet he still saw nothing. His mind began to settle on the here and now, and he realized he was blindfolded. Light seeped around the edges of whatever covered his eyes. At least that meant he was not blind. He thought he remembered seeing a reflection of himself in near darkness, but could not focus enough on the memory to recall with certainty. The sound of a heavy lock being opened followed by a door creaking was the only thing he heard. A rush of fresh air filled the room along with the scent of another shifter.

“Rise and shine. Can’t have our guests sleeping away the day.” The female’s voice had the same joyful ring Mary’s did in the morning. The way Aiden’s head felt, it was quite annoying.

The woman removed the blindfold, but bright lights shining in his face prevented him from seeing anything.

“What the fuck’s going on?” Aiden demanded, the cloudiness of his mind seeming to diminish with the adrenalin rush.

“You’ll find out soon enough, Deputy Jacobs.” An unseen male voice stated in an ominous tone.

Trying to focus on anything he could, Aiden started with how they knew his name. It didn’t take long to remember he had a name tag above his badge.

“I always wanted one of these.” There was pressure on the left pec followed by a ripping sound as his badge was pulled away from his chest.

From the direction of the cool breeze, there was another voice. “Make sure he’s ready. The boss wants to have a chat with him next.”

“Yes, sir.”

Aiden was moved into a sitting position. The light was no longer directly on his face, but was still bright enough he could only make out vague shapes. There were four distinct points of light above him. He could now tell there were shackles on his wrists and ankles with a chain running between them. The slight burning he felt meant they had silver in them, so not something he would be able to break. He could hear someone walking down a corridor outside the room or cell as he was now thinking of it. They sounded heavy, as if the person was rather large. The footfalls stopped inside the room. Aiden could barely make out the shape of whoever had entered, so he knew there were at least four present.

“How many lights do you see?”

Aiden sat in silence, not understanding the question and not wanting to answer.

“It’s really a simple question. How many lights do you see?” The voice had a touch of humor as he was asked a second time. “The correct answer is five lights. Come now, that is how many you see. Isn’t it?”

“What the hell do lights have to do with anything? Who are you? Where am I? And what’s going on?”

There was a chuckle in the background. “Kids these days, for all the television they watch, it’s all reality shows and other such nonsense, no time for the classics. Forgive me for using a line from Star Trek.”

The cloudiness in Aiden’s mind cleared as blood pumped through his body due to the situation. His captor appeared to be a sci-fi fan. It made him wonder how he could use that to gain information. He decided to play along with the odd interrogation, hoping an opportunity to escape would present itself. “Never really watched it other than reruns of Voyager, or trying to stomach that garbage they released in the reboot movies.” Aiden tried to cross his arms, only to be reminded of the chain attaching his wrists to his ankles. “Though if Axanar ever gets made and is anything like their prelude video, I’ll watch it.”

“Well, I’ll give you credit for your description of their latest endeavors. Sadly, their rewriting of history was done so they could just rehash old movies into new ones, and try to see how many times they can blow up the hero ship. There’s no appreciation for what’s considered canon anymore unless it’s a fan based production.”

“I doubt I’m here to debate the finer points of sci-fi movies and television with you. My knowledge on the subject is mostly limited to Battlestar Galactica, Babylon 5, Stargate, and some things I’ve seen on YouTube, Netflix, or Hulu. So how about we just cut to the chase?”

“True, although a good discussion about BSG could prove fun, but we’ll save that for another time. I take back what I said about not taking time to enjoy the classics. Anyone who enjoys Babylon 5 gets high marks with me. Again, we’ll save that for later. At this point, I just wanted to meet my guests. I understand you’re the man who caused so many problems for one of my other guests, or at the very least he blames you. I doubt I would have had the opportunity to meet you if it hadn’t been for him. I’m sure he’ll be thrilled to see again.”

“Who would this person you’re talking about be?”

“All in good time, Deputy Jacobs, all in good time. For now, I have others to deal with. We’ll continue our conversation later.”

Deciding to try and get in the last word, he shouted out, “There! Are! FOUR! Lights!” With a crooked smile, he added, “YouTube.”

A chuckle could be heard from his captor as the footfalls moved away from the room. Moments later, the door closed and the lights finally dimmed, leaving Aiden to contemplate his fate.

******

The alpha was in his office going over damage assessments with a few of his subordinates when his private line rang. “Give me the room, people.” Everyone quickly exited before he picked up the phone. “Hello Dad. I was going to give you a call a little later. I take it you heard.”

“John, are you and Jackie okay? Everyone else okay? I received notification through the council. Seems President Larson thinks I have a rather rude son.”

“Ten dead and twelve believed kidnapped. I haven’t received the casualty list from Ember Moon or Morning Star yet. It could have been much worse with the number of people they threw at us. Jackie was thankfully here with me when it started. I’m doing okay. We’re mourning our losses and working to recover those taken.” His father heard the heavy sigh. “James Larson can think what he wants and yes, I was enjoyably rude. His time on the council is in its twilight as far as I’m concerned. How are you and Mom doing? Is your golf game finally improving?”

“We’re both good. If there’s anything I can do, name it. You’re mother and I would happily assist with the cleanup or anything else you need, if you like. What do you mean by finally improving? My par count in considered above average around here.”

“It would be good to see you and Mom. The cleanup is relatively minor, a few damaged buildings, some dead bodies to clean up, and the forensic work to track these bastards down. Thankfully, they made a miscalculation and tipped their hand weeks ago. Our early warning system worked, and we were able to mobilize and take them out on our terms. There is someone here I’d like you to meet though, our newest pack member.”

“You mean the one you mentioned was mated to the Jacobs boy?”

“Yes. Unfortunately, Aiden is one of those who was taken.”

“We’ll get on the road as soon as we can. Your mother was already packing.”

“Thanks, Dad. Give Mom a kiss for us, and I’ll see you soon.”

John realized there was one call he had not made yet. Dialing his old friend’s number, he waited while it rang.

“Hello?” A female voice answered.

“Marsha? It’s John Stockdale. Is Craig there?”

“Alpha Stockdale. Yes, one moment while I get him.”

“John, what can I do for you?”

“Craig, there’s no easy way to say this. Last night we were attacked by an as of yet unknown group along with Ember Moon and Morning Star. Aiden is believed to have been kidnapped in the chaos. We have no reason at this point to think he’s dead, but it is a possibility. We haven’t heard from the attackers yet to know if they plan to try and ransom him or the others. He was one of twelve people taken from us. We’re doing everything we can to get him back.”

A glass shattering could be heard in the background, along with Marsha asking what was wrong. Craig’s voice trembled. “With your permission, and if my alpha approves, I’d like to be on the next flight there.”

“Permission granted, though we don’t know where he is yet, or how long it will take to find him. I want you to be aware of that. I do realize as a father you wanting to be here to try and help. We are doing everything we can to find him.”

“I understand, but I need to be there. How’s Ethan? Is he safe?”

“He’s safe. Ethan’s at Rafe’s and has a detachment of hunters guarding him. There was an attempt to kidnap him during the attack. Casey recovered him a few miles from their house and hasn’t left his side since. To say your son-in-law’s distraught would be an understatement. Unfortunately, there isn’t much we can do beyond giving him all the emotional support we can.”

“I may not be able to do much there, but even if it’s only for a few days to try and comfort Ethan... Right now my place is there. I’ll speak with my alpha and get there as soon as I can.”

“I’ll keep you updated on any information we receive. We will find him, Craig.”

Jackie walked into the office finding her mate at the desk with his head in his hands. “John, you need to take a break and get something to eat.”

“I’ll do that soon. I still have a few things I need to finish here.”

“It’s so cute when you think you’re in charge. You may be alpha, but I wasn’t making a suggestion. Everyone knows what they need to do. The cleanup is underway, and the women’s auxiliary is organized to take care of the families of those kidnapped or lost. Break time is now and you will accompany me to the dining hall and get something to eat.”

“Yes, my Luna.”

The two walked hand-in-hand from his office, across the courtyard, and to the community space of the apartments. As they entered, everyone present stood and clapped.

Someone called out, “Thank you, Alpha. If it hadn’t been for you, this attack would have been much worse.” There were several more comments like that as the people cheered their alpha.

John kissed Jackie on the cheek. “I want to arrange an emergency meeting tonight for anyone who’s able to make it.”

She pulled out her phone, tapped the screen, and phones throughout the room began to beep indicating her pack wide text was received by everyone. “Notification sent. Now sit down and eat something. Our alpha needs to keep up his strength.”

******

The lights in Aiden’s cell returned to full brightness, blinding him after staring at the ceiling for who knows how long. Hearing the sound of the lock opening, he thought two people entered. In moments, the blinding light was gone as a hood was placed over his head.

“Move.” That was the only command given as someone grabbed his arm and pulled him to a standing position, leading him out of the cell. The ankle shackles made walking difficult, and he struggled to move at the pace his captors wanted. There were a series of right and left turns and they passed through several doors en route to their destination. The stairs were particularly difficult to navigate thanks to the lack of vision and the ankle cuffs. He could not be sure if they were going in circles to confuse him, or if it was a labyrinth he was being held in. He knew they had reached their destination when he was given one additional command. “Sit.”

He was guided into a chair and felt the chain on his shackles being attached to some point below him. The room was eerily quiet. There was something on the hood making it difficult for him to pick up different scents around him, but he could hear the breathing of several shifters.

When the hood was finally removed, it took his eyes time to adjust. Scanning the room, there were several home theater type recliners facing a large window to his left. It had a skybox feel, as it overlooked an arena with stadium seating all around it. He had heard of cage fights in some packs, but had never seen one before. Opposite the windows was a conference area. Seated directly in front of him, about five feet away, was a very large, dark-haired man, probably early to mid forties. With lycan it was difficult to tell. He was well dressed and appeared to be in charge based on his demeanor. The man grasped a heavy chain attached to a thick, metal collar. The kneeling body wiggled around like a happy puppy. Drool dripped from the corner of a deranged smile spread across the familiar face.

“Michael!”

“I see you know my little pet. As you can see, he’s quite happy to see you sitting here before us.”

“Always knew he’d become someone’s bitch. He was never much use for anything else.”

Michael started to get up until the man yanked on the leash to remind him of his place.

“He does have his uses, limited as they are. I will admit, you’re right for the most part. Considering he’s the son of an alpha, I would have expected a little better. His information on your pack was particularly useful to our organization.”

“I think everyone expected more from him, especially anyone who knows his parents. All I can think is perhaps they took pity on some stray mutt and took it in as their own. From the smell of him, it appears he’s been of great use to a lot of people lately.” He leaned forward a little to scent the air. “And a few ferals too it seems. You’ve gotten more use out of him than we ever did. I have to congratulate you for that.”

This time Michael did jump to his feet. “You’ll bow down to me as I take my rightful place as alpha of Parker Valley Wolf Pack. Once I’m done raping that little human mutt of yours and let you watch me put him to death, I might allow you to die with him.”

“I see you still have some work to do. Maybe obedience training might be good for him. Oh, and a muzzle to keep him quiet when his mouth isn’t being put to use.” Aiden completely ignored Michael. “Is he at least house broken yet?”

The man yanked on Michaels leash again. “Heel, bitch. Move or speak again and you go into the feral cages, though I don’t think that’s much of a punishment for you anymore. You probably think it’s a reward.” He returned his attention to Aiden. “You seem rather calm given the situation you’re in. I can smell the fear from you, but I’ll admit you’re keeping it well under control.”

“Given I’m a prisoner of someone I don’t know, I’d be foolish not to be fearful. That doesn’t mean I’m going to let my fear control me. Fear is the mind-killer. I will face my fear. I will permit it to pass over me and through me. Besides, if you wanted me dead, I doubt we’d be having this conversation. Unless it’s merely for your amusement, in which case I can’t prevent your actions, and likewise won’t allow my fears to run wild.”

“Wise words for someone as young as you. Nice quote from Dune. I think your sci-fi knowledge is more extensive than you let on. Now I see why the bitch described you as his primary challenger to becoming alpha. It’s also amusing to see you taunt him while showing restraint in how you speak with me.”

“At this time, I don’t see any benefit to showing disrespect towards you. While I am being held against my will and have silver laced bracelets on me, I haven’t been mistreated so far. Besides, I’ve been taunting him for years and always took great joy in doing so. It’s a natural response to seeing him. He’d be heartbroken not to be abused by a stronger wolf. Unless you give me some indication that treating your bitch in the fashion he’s accustomed to is a form if disrespect towards you, I’ll continue to taunt him.”

“You do know the bitch well. It didn’t take long to figure his draw to men of power, though he willingly submits to omegas and ferals in an attempt to please me. Some of the men find he makes a good punching bag to work out their aggressions. His deficiencies notwithstanding, if it were to come down to you and him vying for the position of alpha, what do you think the differences would be between you two?”

“Okay, leaving out he’s a whore who apparently spreads his legs or lips for anything with a dick, I’ll give it a shot. Since you started things with a sci-fi reference, I would describe him more like Admiral Cane, though obviously he didn’t start out with nothing and he’s not a good tactician. Politically connected, controlling, self serving, single minded, insane, and willing to throw out the rule of law or sacrifice anyone to try to achieve the goal. A god in his own mind. Oh, and has to have the big, flashy toy to travel around in with every possible gadget.” A smirk crossed Aiden’s face. “I see myself more like Admiral Adama. Happy with the old bucket that’s been around forever. Sometimes a bit brash, tempered between doing what’s right for the pack and doing what needs to be done, and trying not to cross a line in going too far. Willing to listen to the views of others in making a decision based on the best option. A warrior when required, and a leader if called upon. And if needed to protect anyone from him, he would be dead by my paw, so there was never any real chance of him becoming alpha.

“I could do a Babylon 5 analogy with him as a power hungry President Clark willing to go for a scorched earth policy if things don’t go his way. Perhaps I’ve done enough sci-fi references for now. Of course, it doesn’t hurt I have a mate who can scare him as bad as Mimbari Ambassador Delenn does with earth warships.”

“We will most definitely be having a discussion at some point regarding Battlestar Galactica, Babylon 5, and possibly Dune as well. You have a better attitude than some of your other pack members. We’ve been talking for some time now and I’m being extremely rude as your host, Deputy Jacobs. I apologize for not introducing myself sooner. I’m Jean-Pierre, leader of this band of merry men or as some here have called me, Imperious Leader.”

“Point to you for the original BSG reference. What is the condition of my partner and any others you’ve taken? If you don’t mind me asking, that is.”

“Your partner and another deputy had to be restrained using slightly harsher methods than we used on you. They were a bit belligerent.” He shook his head. “They found no humor in being asked how many lights. Any who had injuries we’ve allowed to shift just long enough to heal. Most are scared, but we haven’t harmed anyone, yet.”

“I’m not entirely sure how much time has passed since I was captured. Not to sound like a complaint, but there has been no food or water provided so far. Have the others been fed at least?”

Jean-Pierre glared at the lieutenant in charge of the prisoners who shook his head. The large man poured a glass of water and handed it to Aiden. “Apparently they haven’t. I apologize for my subordinate’s negligence, and will have that rectified immediately.”

He regarded Aiden for a short time, as if sizing him up. “I wouldn’t mind having a few young men like you in my organization. You respectfully speak your mind and try to look out for the others who arrived with you.”

“I’m not familiar enough with your organization to be able to make any kind of educated decision on the matter, and my loyalties are to my pack.”

“Understood. We’ll talk more soon, Aiden.” His eyes focused on the deputy’s chest before turning his glare to one of the guards. “What happened to his shirt?”

“It might have happened when he was captured, sir. Or someone helped themselves to his badge once he was here.” The guard inched himself behind Aiden.

“My apologies, Deputy. Some of my men forget their manners at times.” Nodding to the guard. “Return him to his room and make sure he’s comfortable. Have something brought from the restaurant for him, and make sure his people are properly fed as well. He’s to be treated as a guarded guest, for now.”

“Yes, sir.” The chain holding Aiden’s shackles to the floor was removed and the hood was replaced before they guided him back. Upon reaching the room, his head was uncovered and someone showed up with a tray of food. It seemed two large, rare burgers, fries, and the works was on the prisoner menu. One of his escorts removed the ankle shackles while the other stood ready if needed. The wrist cuffs were likewise removed.

“We’ll need to put these back on you anytime you’re removed from this room. If you don’t give us any trouble, we will return the favor. Have a pleasant evening and if you need anything, a guard is right outside the room, sir.”

Aiden was famished and quickly devoured the first burger. The second he tried to eat slower. After he finished, he sat on his bunk, thinking of Ethan. “Pup, please give me the strength to make it through this and to keep up this nice attitude with my captors. I hope you’re safe and know I love you.”

******

People filed into the community hall to hear what the alpha had to say about the previous night’s attack. Every member available attended, along with all off-duty hunters, no matter if they were pack or not. The families of those killed or taken were given special seating to allow them a little privacy in their grieving, while letting everyone else try to help them. The Tucker family surrounded Ethan, while Darius and Cody stood right behind. Ethan’s eyes were hollow as they stared blankly forward, leaning heavily against Casey. No emotion was discernible, and if not for his breathing, he would have passed for dead. Rafe gave Mary a kiss before joining the alpha. Alex and Nathan stood beside Darius, wanting to be near Ethan.

Jackie, who rarely stood before the pack during meetings was at her mate’s side, flanked by Rafe and Dan. Dan’s badge, along with those of any deputy present had the noticeable black mourning band on it.

At the appointed time, the alpha began his address. “Last night, in a brazen attack against not only us but both Ember Moon and Morning Star packs, ten of our family, of our pack mates, paid the ultimate price in defense of us all. Twelve more are missing and believed kidnapped as the attacking forces were driven off. The combined efforts of our warriors, hunters, and sheriff’s deputies prevented this tragedy from being far worse than it was.” Cheers went up in support of all those fighters. “In the coming days, we will mourn and bury our dead. We will help the families through their loss, and begin one portion of the healing process as one family.

“With or without the assistance of the Lycan Council, we will not stop hunting down those who orchestrated this attack. We will find and recover the twelve who are missing, as well as those taken from our neighbors. I call on each and every one of you to give those hurting all the support and comfort they need, and to also offer your support to our neighbors in their time of need.

“We will get through this! We will remember those lost! We will get our people back! And we will be an even stronger pack as a result. Those who sought to attack us and destroy our way of life have only awakened a sleeping wolf that will not cease its hunt until its prey has been caught and devoured!”