Running with the Pack - 46. Chapter 46

“The votes are counted and certified, and we have a clear winner who’s been chosen by sixty-three percent of his peers today. The first Chief Alpha of the Lycan Council in years is to be Richard Drake of Forest Moon Pack. He’ll be sworn in this evening before all pack delegations.”

“Richard, just a reminder that the protected territory provision in the new bylaws was passed. No other pack may make any claim or challenge your territory during the time you hold this office. It doesn’t matter if you relocate all your remaining members here to assist you, your territory will be safe.” Karissa held up a document for all to see. “The bear clans near you have signed a treaty agreeing to this. They’ve also pledged their assistance in the defense of your lands while you’re in office. This protection will carry over to your successors as well. Any alpha can run the council and not have to worry about losing their pack.”

Richard appeared in shock as his eyes scanned the chamber. “I’m honored and humbled to have been chosen for this position. I intend to fight for what’s right and just for all our people. The same as I have fought to protect my pack for so many years.”

******

Regardless of title or position, everyone gathered that evening on the lakeside terrace. Torches outlined the immense space. The moon shone brightly, casting its bluish-grey light onto the crowd. Its reflection off the glassy water perfectly mirrored the night sky. A gentle breeze blew, causing the flames to flicker. Streamers of green and red danced in the sky as the aurora put on a wonderful display as if the heavens understood the significance of the night.

At eight o’clock, the hotel doors opened, and silence fell over the assembled delegations. Sixteen alphas filed out two-by-two, taking up position at torches spaced out along the center aisle. When the final pair were in place, an additional leader marched purposely to stand before those gathered. Richard had chosen her to administer the oath. Karissa Ryan stood at the head of the group, awaiting the new chief alpha.

Emerging from the doors, Richard Drake savored the occasion. He looked down the long aisle towards Karissa, the lake, and at the beauty of the springtime aurora. After a deep breath, he took the initial step in what felt like a long walk. As he approached the first set of torches, the flames grew in height and formed an arch. Each successive set did the same. He took his place beside Karissa who gave him a reassuring nod. Light from the dancing flames bathed them in a soft glow.

Her voice carried with ease as she spoke. “It is my honor to stand before the assembled Congress of Alphas and their delegations. Richard Drake, you have been chosen by a majority of your peers to lead this council as its chief alpha for the coming year. Do you accept this responsibility that has been placed on you? To bring us out of the darkness we’ve faced and back into the light of the moon where we belong?”

“I do.”

“Please repeat after me.”

“I, Richard Drake, Alpha of the Forest Moon Wolf Pack, do swear and affirm…” He watched the faces of those nearby with interest. “To uphold the rules and laws which govern this council…” He saw pride, respect, and most of all hope. “To seek guidance from those around me and to work with all packs in need of my counsel…” As he repeated each phrase, the light from the moon and torches seemed to cleanse the taint of corruption that remained. “By the moon’s grace, I do hereby swear this oath before you all, to lead with the honor and trust of our greatest alphas.” The weight he felt was tempered by the knowledge his pack was finally safe from harm. His focus returned to the woman he had known for a lifetime as she finished administering his oath. “So help me by the grace of the lunar spirits.”

“Congratulations, Richard Drake, Chief Alpha of the North American Lycan Council.” Karissa leaned in to kiss his cheek as they turned towards the crowd.

He whispered in her ear. “Thank you. For everything you’ve done for me. For always standing by me and giving counsel when I needed it. Most of all, for making me attend this year.”

“That’s what family does, cousin. Grandma would be so proud of you.”

“You never told them, did you?”

“I pushed for this because of the man you are. Not because of the blood running through us.”

The cheers and clapping were deafening.

Richard held up his hands to quiet the crowd. “I want to thank you all for this honor. Having spent years fighting for the survival of my own pack, I promised to take on the battles needed to rebuild this organization. I’ll need your help and expect to work with each one of you in the coming year. My ears will always be open for ways we can progress. Looking to the sky, at both the moon and the beauty of the aurora we are blessed with tonight, I hope it’s a sign the light is once again shining on us. I would like to welcome our new bear ambassadors, and I look forward to expanding our working relationship and friendship. As two extraordinary young men recently reminded us, we are all lycan and this assembly is called the Lycan Council for a reason. I’m told the committee made up of retired alphas has been picked and all those whose names were called have agreed to serve. While there is a lot of work we need to accomplish, together we will come out of this stronger than ever.”

******

“Sebastien, could I have a word with you?” Aiden’s expression was neutral as he stood before his former captor.

“Of course, Aiden.” Sebastien and his men led the others away from the crowd for a private discussion.

“With the help of my alpha, I’ve been able to verify what you told us during the welcome reception. Your story checks out, so I know you weren’t trying to play me. I understand why you originally got involved with the gang. I even understand why you eventually took over its leadership. But I have a serious fuckin’ problem with how long you ran it. And with the crimes you committed during that time. Part of me wants to kill you for what you did. It seems unjust to let you live when so many of your associates were killed or put to death for their part in your crimes.”

Sebastien nodded, humbling himself before the younger alpha. “When we first met here, I agreed to place my life in your hands. That still stands. From one alpha to another, I’ll abide by your decision.”

“I’m no judge and there’s no court or trial here. I’m not even sure I would ever be qualified to judge you for the things you’ve done. I know part of being an alpha is making hard decisions and sometimes that requires taking a life.” Aiden lifted his eyes to the sky for guidance as his hand morphed into a paw with its claws extended. “What you said about someone else replacing you if you disbanded the gang makes sense because of the corruption here. But you didn’t even try to let other packs know what was happening. To bring things out into the open sooner to end all this. And that’s where my problem lies.” The claws receded as the paw reverted to its human counterpart. Aiden ran his hand through his hair as he clenched his jaw in frustration.

“I’ve given this a lot of thought and talked to my mate and friends about it. Jean-Pierre died in the bunker the day I was rescued. The first time I ever laid eyes on you was at the welcome reception.” His fists balled as his wolf still wanted to strike out at the man. “You will return to your pack and continue to lead your people. You held them together while being away so much, and I feel you are the best to keep them together now. I strongly suggest you join the alliance my alpha has helped create in our region.” The flash of his eyes indicated it was no suggestion. “You will never again engage in the activities you took part in as a member of that gang.” His voice dropped to a low, threatening growl. “I will keep an eye on you. If I find that you or any member of your pack is taking part in anything lycan law deems illegal, I’ll kill you myself.” His focused glare on the former gang leader softened as his voice returned to normal. “There are three pups in our territory who need a full time father. One who will raise them to honor and respect our way of life. Don’t fuck this up and make it so I have to raise them myself.” With that, Aiden, Ethan, and their three enforcers turned and walked away.

John and Sebastien stood quietly for a moment. It was Sebastien who broke the silence. “You helped raise a tremendous young man.”

“I merely watched as his father raised him and he developed his own sense of responsibility and duty. As you’ve met the one I raised, I don’t think I can take any credit for how Aiden turned out.”

“Perhaps this is a second chance for us both to move on and put the past behind us.”

“Make the best of it, because I expect he’ll follow through on that not-so-veiled threat of checking up to make sure things stay above board from now on.”

The two men shook hands before returning to the party.

******

Richard Drake found John during the post-inaugural celebration. “I know you and Karissa had a great deal to do with me getting placed in this position. From what I’ve seen, you should have been the one chosen as chief alpha. Can I count on you to assist as an advisor to me as needed?”

“Of course you can, Chief Alpha.” John grinned as he extended his hand. “We may have discussed you as someone we wanted to tap for the position, but that’s because she knew of your honesty and integrity. I should have paid more attention to what packs like yours were going through. Or asked why you stopped attending meetings. As for me being chief alpha, I have a large pack to run and a future alpha to train, though it seems he’s far more ready than he realizes.”

“It isn’t like we are close neighbors. You can’t be expected to keep an eye on everyone that’s threatened.”

“Perhaps, but I didn’t realize it had been going on for so many years or that you were down to so few wolves.”

“With luck, this is a new moon for our kind and an end to what’s been going on.”

“Well, Mister Chief Alpha, you’ll have a lot of support as we all go through these changes.”

******

“Alpha Jackman, do you have a minute?” Ethan had a sheepish grin as he glanced over his shoulder at his scowling mate.

“What’s on your mind, Ethan?” He extended his hand to the young man standing before him. “Oh, and after handing my ass to me on a plate, I think you can call me Dorian. You may not hold the position yet, but you and your mate are both full alphas in every way that matters.”

“I probably shouldn’t have done it without saying something, but when we fought I could feel something was wrong with you. When we shook hands I did a quick healing.”

“Really? I was wondering why I’ve felt better than I have in years. What exactly did you do to me?”

“I could feel something in your blood that shouldn’t be there. I’m not sure what it was or if it was something you took on purpose. I’m sorry for what I did without asking. I was able to push it through your system so you ended up pissing most of it out. Your scent returned to a normal healthy wolf after I did it, but I can smell it changing back to what it was.”

“What do you mean my scent wasn’t healthy?”

“No one ever mentioned you had kind of a sour scent when you approached them? I hope that doesn’t sound rude.”

“Most would have never said anything like that out of fear I’d kill them for it. You say the unhealthy scent is returning?”

Aiden coughed. “I couldn’t smell anything and still can’t, but he said it was bad.”

Ethan nodded. “Yes, it is.”

“Can you tell what’s causing it?”

“May I put my hand on your chest and take a look around?” Receiving a nod from Dorian, Ethan placed his hand in the center of the man’s chest. His eyes glowed slightly as he felt around. “There’s something in your blood again that shouldn’t be there. It isn’t the same level it was when we fought, but it’s definitely there. You don’t take anything to boost aggression or fighting ability?”

“No, I don’t. I wonder if that’s the cause of the pain I’ve felt for a few years. Can you remove it?”

“Slice open a spot on your arm.” Once Dorian had done as requested, Ethan focused on his task.

Blood dripped from the self-inflicted wound, and Dorian could pick up a scent emanating from the fluid. After several minutes, the cut sealed over and healed.

“That should be all of it, and I repaired any damage I felt. I’m still not sure what it was. All I know is it didn’t belong in you.”

“I recognize the scent. It’s silver nitrate. Long-term exposure will cause excessive aggression and pain that’s difficult to trace.” Dorian rubbed his arm where he’d cut it. “If the dose’s low enough, it’s near impossible to detect with blood tests. Probably why it wasn’t found by my doctor.”

“Your scent’s back to normal and healthy again. My wolf tells me when you fight now, you’ll have better control and won’t get aggravated as easy.”

“I suppose I owe you my thanks as well as another apology for my actions when we met. But if I hadn’t been an ass, I wouldn’t know someone was poisoning me. I already feel better.” Dorian thought about who could have been behind the poisoning and how it was administered. “If I can give some advice on you traveling to different packs to treat ferals? Pick some place you know and feel safe traveling to and insist they be transported there. Every time you travel, you and your mate put yourselves at risk even if you can defend yourself from people like me. It’s inevitable someone will try to control you for their own means.”

Aiden’s eyes took on a reddish glow at the thought of his mate being in danger. Cody and Casey crossed their arms as they stood behind Ethan.

The corner of Dorian’s lip curled up in a smile. “Meat bag, dumpster rat, and the mutt, make sure you take good care protecting my friend.” He did the unthinkable for an alpha and bowed in respect to the three enforcers.

Darius returned the bow. “That’s a wise suggestion, Alpha Jackman. Something we can easily implement. We’ll see to his safety until our last breath.”

“Thank you for coming to me about this, Alpha Jacobs-Tucker.” He tipped his head respectfully at Ethan and then Aiden before returning to the party.

******

Spencer wrapped an arm around Matthew as they enjoyed Saturday breakfast with their friends.

Carl and Edward were having a private conversation ending with a giggle. “Want to go for a hike along the lake? We should be able to find a nice spot to sit and talk.

Ethan nodded excitedly causing Aiden to smile. “We’d love to. It’s fun getting to know you guys.”

“What do you say, Cas and Dari? Should we hang around with this riffraff?” Cody laughed as Edward’s jaw dropped.

“I’m not sure it does our reputation any good to be seen around them, but they are friendly.” Darius acted as though he was considering other options.

Casey smirked as he faced his brother. “I suppose we should go if for no other reason than to protect them from Ethan trying to get everyone naked.”

Ethan stood with his hands on his hips, mouth agape, and unable to form a witty response. Spencer and Carl doubled over in laughter.

The group walked along the lakeshore until they found a nice spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.

“It doesn’t feel like it’s been two weeks.” Spencer watched as Casey skipped rocks on the water. “I can’t believe we’re all going home tomorrow.”

“I know what you mean.” Carl nodded. “Usually it seems like our time here drags. The workshops are fun, but the actual alpha meetings make you think of all the different possibilities for slitting someone’s throat or slitting your own throat to be done with the torture.”

“I think this is the first Congress where something meaningful was actually accomplished.” Edward picked up a rock and got six skips, earning a thumbs up from Casey.

“It would appear your wolves have awakened from a slumber that allowed things to get so bad. As a non-wolf and non-alpha, it’s impressive to see how much you’ve all done in such a short amount of time.” Darius cuddled with his smaller mate on the soft grassy bank. “You carved out a cancer at the top. Regents have been established for the packs that are being investigated. And you have completely reorganized the very structure of the council leadership, passing new bylaws to address the previous problems. That is no small task for less than fourteen days.”

“I wasn’t sure we would get even a fraction of what’s been accomplished taken care of.” Spencer leaned back, propping himself in his elbows. “Oh, and let’s not forget we also agreed to include the bears for the first time. Perhaps the coyotes and the solaris will be next.”

“Coyotes do make up a sizeable population, but as far as I know, we solaris are few at least in North America. And still thought to be extinct by many. I’m sure most here still believe I’m human since I’ve only unmasked my true scent around friends.”

“I’d still like to know what the others think about a human being listed as an enforcer to a wolf.” Matthew wondered aloud. “I’ve seen some of the looks you get when people see your badge and catch the scent you normally project.”

“They can think whatever they want.” A smile spread across Cody’s face. “I’m kind of glad they think he’s human and I’m just a little, trashy coyote. I know when the three of us curl up at night I can have either human hands or a combination of wolf and lion paws wrapped around me. But if they come after our charges, they’ll get the fight of their life to get through us.”

“You guys are the first polyamorous relationship I’ve ever heard of in shifters.” Edward’s voice projected a certain awe while his scent betrayed his arousal at the thought. “It’s hot as hell, so don’t get me wrong. Most lycan, especially wolves, are territorial in regards to their mates. You guys look like you make it work with ease.”

“In all honesty, it is easy.” Casey sat back into his mate’s waiting arms. “I love them both equally. If someone were to try and come in to get to one of us there would be a fight. We know where our hearts are. My wolf is very territorial with regards to them and Ethan and Aiden.”

“It’s kind of like Ethan and my relationship with them. While it’s never been physical between all of us, there’s been some light teasing when Ethan really deserves it. They’re as much a part of us as we are to each other. In a way, you four are a mystery since my wolf feels calm and at peace around you guys. I’ve seen you staring at all of us when we stripped down to skinny dip or shift and the wolf instinct to protect my mate only kicked in the very first time.”

“I noticed that too. Edward and I are very comfortable around Spencer and Matthew, but we’ve known them for a while. We’ve respectfully checked each other out since we became friends and started running together at these events, but it’s like with you guys. We can be friends and see the other, step close like when we first looked at your wolves, and not receive a growl or get bit. But have someone else get near my mate in that way, and he’ll be lucky to leave with his head attached.”

“I suppose we’re all lunar brothers. Even you, Darius.” Spencer stroked Matthew’s hair. “We know the rules and all want to be close friends. We’re not going to do anything to harm what we have with any of us.”

“I hope you guys do some traveling before you take over as alphas. If you do, there’s always rooms open for you five at our pack.” Matthew received a nod from his husband.

“That goes the same for you visiting our pack.” Edward and Carl both offered.

“We’ve got several guest rooms at our house too.” Ethan received a kiss on the side of his head from Aiden.

“We’re gonna have to arrange some time to get together during the year. Our packs may not be geographically close to each other, but I’d like to strengthen the bonds between all three. And I don’t want to go a year before we see you guys either.” Spencer extended his hand as the others placed theirs atop his.

******

Sunday morning, after a round of farewells to friends and colleagues, the Parker Valley delegation drove back to Calgary. They were not scheduled to meet the other packs on the charter flight until four o’clock, so they decided to spend a little time sightseeing. The group toured the Calgary Military Museum before moving on to the Calgary Tower.

As they stood at the base of the 627-foot tower, Ethan’s eyes rose as his color faded. “We’re going up there?”

“Sure. It’s about sixty-two stories and the views are supposed to be spectacular.” John did not notice the fear on the blond’s face. “Besides, we’re having lunch at the restaurant up there.” He had bought tickets for the group and they waited for their turn in one of the elevators.

The trip to the top was remarkably fast at just over a minute. Walking onto the observation deck, they headed for the nearest windows. As they looked out, the views were incredible. You could see every direction and with how clear the day was, the mountains they had recently left were visible in the distance.

As they moved to the north side of the tower, Ethan noticed a series of columns a few feet from the glass wall. His focus was straight ahead as they stepped past them. As Ethan looked down, he jumped back in fright and almost ended up in Casey’s arms. “What the…”

“Are you afraid of heights?” Aiden’s amusement turned to immediate concern.

“I’m not sure. I’ve never been this high up before. I’m used to the ground being closer to me.” Ethan looked down at the floor where Aiden currently stood. Instead of the solid surface he was on, beyond the posts was a glass platform looking down to the base of the tower.

“Give me your hand, Pup. I won’t let anything happen to you.”

Ethan reached out and grasped his mate’s hand in a death grip, before taking a tentative step onto the clear surface. Having windows in front and beneath him was dizzying. He closed his eyes for a moment to fight off the urge to flee. He again opened them briefly and looked down. Ethan pressed as close to Aiden’s body as he could while his big bad wrapped both his arms tight around the trembling body.

“Are you okay?”

“I think so. I’m not feeling as dizzy but something about standing here I don’t like. I mean, I’m glad I did it, but can we go back over to the solid floor now?”

“C’mere. I’m sorry about that.” Aiden lifted his pup into his arms. “I didn’t know it would affect you like that.”

“It’s okay. I didn’t know it would either.”

Casey happily bounced on the clear floor several times, earning a glare from his friends.

After everyone had their turn stepping onto the glass, John looked at his watch. “We have reservations in a few minutes at Sky 360. We should head to that level now.”

While they ate, the restaurant rotated, giving them views in all directions.

After lunch, they went to Fort Calgary Historic Park. As great as the view was from the tower, Ethan enjoyed the museums on the ground much more. With their day in Calgary over, the group made their way to the private terminal to meet the other packs flying home with them.

******

It did not take long after takeoff for Ethan to lean his head against Aiden’s shoulder and doze off. He kissed his pup’s head, enjoying the closeness when the blond fell asleep against him while traveling. The warmth of his mate finally lulled him to sleep as well. It seemed like no time had passed before the flight attendant was waking them to say they were about to land. A six-hour flight goes much faster when you are not awake.

Once on the ground in Buffalo, it took a little time to get the luggage offloaded. The standard customs check was tedious but a necessity before the different packs met their waiting cars. For Parker Valley, it would be another two hours drive home.

The SUV pulled up in front of the guys’ house and everyone piled out. Aiden grabbed their luggage while Ethan fumbled with his keys. “See you in the morning, guys. Thanks for everything on the trip.”

“Not like we did much. You two had everything handled.” Cody laughed as he tried not to yawn. “I’m gonna get these guys to bed. See you in the morning.”