And you can’t just substitute one pack member for another when we’re talking about their strongest female. The entire point of the cross-mating decree was to foster alliances through the exchange of each pack’s most powerful asset. A secondary female won’t do—it would be seen as an insult, as if they’re giving Blue Crest their scraps instead of their best.”

I cross my arms over my chest. “So, punish Gareth for failing to control his most important pack member.”

“I intend to. But first, I want that female found.” Father begins pacing, his movements slower and more deliberate than they once were. “Alpha Gareth claims she has vanished completely. Run...