The Bracken Woods Apathy

His pale eyes flashed, and for a moment briefer than a blink, the wolf stiffened with contained violence. It passed almost imperceptibly, because what she asked of him next was contradictory to the reaction in his muscles, and he forced himself to consider her question in grave seriousness. "No," he uttered at last, admitting this at great length. "Not if it were just to you." He watched her face, a plate of dark steel, but could see no definitive emotion reflected there as surely his own countenance remained impassive. "You have done me no disservice, and you are an admirable creature— a consummate enigma. But I do not just give my respect. I merely reciprocate."

He would be a danger to any who challenged or severely disrespected him. Could any pack house such a volatile spirit? One whose place was undefined and certain all the same? He could see himself following the black queen, but to be controlled? Of this he was uncertain. "Will your offer stand if I do not choose to commit this instant?"