"My great-great-grandfather learned that the hard way."
"I suppose it makes sense," I said, nodding thoughtfully and scribbling down notes. "They aren't like us, after all. Do you have any defensive strategies planned?"
"Normally, I'd keep such plans to myself," Alpha Vincenzo admitted, "but your Alpha, Carlo, has been a great ally lately." He exhaled heavily. "I've put all the young, able-bodied wolves into training. Once they're trained, they’ll serve as warriors for at least four years. I'm also planning to strengthen the borders and send out more scouts to locate that cursed portal."
"Thank you for your time and your insights." I managed a smile, this time feeling a little more genuine. Then, almost without thinking, I added, "I'm sorry for your losses, but I'm glad you manage
