Chapter 496: Dissent

RETH

Voices rose in a clamor from among the wolves. Although some leaned into their brothers and sisters to discuss the proposal, many cried out their dissent.

"You would leave the wolves restrained again!"

"You betray our secrets!"

"Why should we vow when the people of the City do not?!"

Reth took a long, deep breath and tried to catch Lerrin's eye. But the wolf faced his former people, his face grave and disturbed. But he didn't waver, only shook his head, or held the challenging gazes that would have weakened him. He stood with strength and certainty. Had his hands not been bound, Reth would have thought him not only free, but the true leader of these Anima.

When they didn't stop throwing their accusations, Lerrin's upper lip curled away from his teeth. "I cannot raise my hands to quiet you, and we cannot answer your questions until you let us speak!" he bellowed, then gave them another moment to settle.