We faced each other across the clearing. On our side stood Fred, still human and positioned in the center. Mike was to his immediate right with Clive and Douglas behind them, all three in animal form. Jackie and I stood to Fred’s left, with Sasha and Ethan behind us and the rest of the team spread out across the back. Bridgett was in a tree in cheetah form and Sinc had positioned herself to the rear, smirking as she held her crossbow in a loose grip but ready to aim at a second’s notice. My entire team looked relaxed, powerful and prepared for whatever they had to offer.
As for the wolves across from us—not so much. The two in human form were thin and dirty, looking almost like desperate refugees from a POW camp. The rest, all in animal form, appeared scruffy and hungry. Our estimation as to their numbers hadn’t been accurate, they’d arrived with twenty-three, but their physical state was horrendous. Even so, it wouldn’t be wise to underestimate them. Their alpha took a step forward and spoke.
“I’m Johnny.” He surveyed our team without fear. “We’ll give you eight hours to pack up your basic belongings and get out of Gasquet.” He pointed toward me. “Your offer of backup won’t help Fred and his pack.”
Jackie sent to me, “Something else is in the woods, I’m going to check it out.”
“Be careful.” She disappeared and everyone gasped or cursed, including some of my team.
Fred kept his cool and spoke softly to the other alpha, his voice intensely focused. “As you see, we have more than just backup. You should leave our territory now.” The level of energy buzzing around him impressed me. This was a were with as much potential as Aaron, and I couldn’t help but wonder how he’d kept it hidden for so long. I was sure Johnny could sense it, but curiously, he didn’t seem impressed. In fact, their pack didn’t act like one perched on the edge of battle. They were almost nonchalant. Something was up.
Jackie suddenly reappeared and sent to me, “Two blood witches. Already busy working a spell. I can take someone back with me to stop them.”
I sent the info to my nest, feeling grateful she hadn’t tried to take the witches on alone, then sent back to her, “Take Sasha. Hurry.”
They disappeared and I spoke to Johnny.. “We found your two friends. It happens today I have a strong craving for dark witch blood. It tastes like the finest red wine, Rick, you should try some.” I grinned at him and he grinned back. I’d said it loudly enough so my team and the Brownlow Pack would know what else we were facing.
I had a brief twinge of regret, realizing I should have taken this encounter more seriously, but it was too late to worry about that now. Jackie and Sash could deal with the witches.
I felt a sudden pressure in my ears, the ground shook, then the world turned black and silent.