Chapter 38

I welcome the Lunas to the castle the next day. 

After introductions are done, we head to the dinning hall. The women are dressed impeccably, covered in expensive jewelries and even more outrageously expensive clothes. I don't miss the underlaying tint of competitiveness in the air. 

Most of the women don't come alone. As I'd hoped, they brought their courts and retinue as well: equally lavishly dressed female wolves who hung on their Luna's every word.

When I take my seat at the table, a hush falls over the hall. A riot of scents flay the air, but beneath the cloying layers I pick up on ill-concealed interest.

"Welcome," I say. "I am glad you all managed to make it here on such short notice. I know you're saddled as it is with running your packs, but I ask that you extend the warm qualities particular to your stations as Lunas to the daughters of the Eld king." I motion to Elodie and her sister. Imatra's missing.

The women turn their att