Storm of Swords

Saga brought up a valid concern. Koontz turned it over in her mind for a few beats before replying, "When you arrive, call specifically for a leader. If someone else greets you, request the highest-ranked wolf available, if possible. Try to be diplomatic about it, though. No matter what, at least get the message across. Once you get back, I can decide whether a follow-up meeting is necessary." She punctuated this decision with a firm nod. They would play it by ear, in other words.

"Come on," she invited, "I'll show you where it is." Saga continued speaking as they began to walk and the Alpha kept her head tilted toward him to indicate that she was listening. When he began to fumble over his words, she blinked at him, then cracked a smile when he said he would be quiet. She understood his embarrassment all too well, though it was unnecessary.

"Thank-you for the compliment, I think?" she teased lightly. "I probably will use the communal den at some point. I'm loving the fall weather, though. I think it's my favorite season." Koontz paused, her ears and whiskers quivering. "What about you? What's your favorite season? Tell me about yourself," she pressed, her hoary tail swaying in rhythm with her long-legged gait.