Fritz looks at you in genuine surprise. You wonder if he's come to expect humans not to prize intelligence in their leaders for some reason.
Max, on the other hand, has looked happier since you've met him. He folds his arms, glowering at you. Out of a healthy regard for your own mortality, you quickly add, "Of course, this is purely a human perspective. I'm sure that it translates differently to werewolf society." After a moment, you add, "And that's not to say that I don't think you're smart, Max."
Your attempt at goodwill is met with a stony silence, which grows less and less comfortable with each passing second.
"We can talk more about it later?" you suggest finally, gesturing towards the door. "We do have a job we're supposed to be getting on with, after all."
The werewolves walk out of the library in silence. You glance at Michelle and Renault.
"Shall we?"
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