“Depends on who’s asking? Depends on what they want?” she laughs, a low husky and seductive sound, like rolling waves that echo around us eerily and the hint of bold confidence and lack of fear completely unnerves me. She doesn’t seem to care that three highly aggressive wolves are homed in defense, and she is the target.

“I’m Alora Santo, Sierra Santo sent us to find you because we need your help.” I relax my stance and turn my claws and teeth away. Nudging Meadow and Carmen to do the same in a show that we’re not here to harm her. Only Carmen obeys with a sigh and straightens up...