My muscles were tense as I prepared myself, my wolf barely contained, when a voice rang out, stopping the guards in their tracks. It was a voice I hadn't expected, calm yet commanding, with a hint of that old, seasoned authority that only time and experience could grant.
The former Alpha of the Neiborung pack stepped forward, his face lined with age, his gaze steady as he looked between me and the young guards holding their ground. He held up a hand, gesturing for them to lower their weapons. "Stand down," he said, his tone leaving no room for argument. The guards hesitated, exchanging glances, but then they obeyed, slowly lowering their spears and swords, though their eyes never left me.
