Sleeping Dragon set the controls for the heart of the sun

Thuringwethil’s idea of survival differs from many wolves, she understands, and Gyda’s reservation—even if she hasn’t spoken the concern—is evident. Her rule of Seageda, branching off into three other clans, had been the key to their survival. Harsh conditions, bloodthirsty wolves all a threat to her former home that an alliance bowing to her had been key to keeping them alive. Promising safety to another pack with the same in return, using them at her disposal should she need, would benefit the core of Drageda.

“He wants security,” she tells her, glancing toward Magpie under the impression she has heard most of the conversation. Grey eyes flick off toward Warbone but she ignores his presence; he knows what’s going on by being present at the meeting with Reek and whether or not he agrees is lost on her. She doesn’t dwell on it. “With nothing to gain, I would have denied the request but with the tensions in the Phoenix wolves, he could be beneficial.”

Her jaw tightens and she focuses on Gyda for a moment. The viking has been short sighted as queen but Thuringwethil didn’t fault her for that, for she often saw the long term even if the struggle of the present is difficult enough. Thuringwethil knows her wolves are strong, even if they are new, and should Saena hold her promise as a threat over Drageda, she has no doubt she couldn’t wipe them out entirely. Having Larksong on their side would add able bodies to ensure their claim is not a threat.

“He accepted the terms of a coalition, to submit to me—to Drageda—as their commander in return. They would become one of us,” she explains. An alliance, sure, but more. More bodies to keep them safe, fed, and alive. More wolves in her reign. 

There’s a moment where she is silent, unsure of how her queen would take, but she turns to Magpie to give her the floor should she need to speak up, this time with invitation: “I want you to be involved,” she decides, “to learn to be my advisor, you should have the position.” Thuringwethil holds her breath for a moment at the change, offering the position to the dark woman. They had a breakthrough not long ago of understanding but to really get the full effect, to show she wants the same thing, she offers the position officially to the older woman.