As Tiffany and Lily spent days catching up, Ethan kept his distance, respecting their need for time to bond. It was an unusual experience for him, being so close to someone but refraining from involving himself directly. Instead, he focused on monitoring the situation with the Blue Creek pack. The impending trial was of great concern, especially given the potential consequences for Alpha Kenneth's daughter, Brandy.
How did Brandy get a hold of Wolfsbane?
The plant that she had was even more toxic than anything he had come across before. So who was cultivating this plant and why?
Ethan's beta had casually suggested a day ago, "Just make an example out of them. It would make everything easier."
"You are not looking at the bigger picture. Someone is growing Wolfsbane. Wolfsbane is specifically toxic to us. If we kill Brandy and her parents, we would not be able to find the source," Ethan explained.
"My apologies Alpha. I only meant that we could dispose of them after finding out what we need," his Beta further explained himself, earning another disappointed glare from Ethan.
"And then we would risk a rift. Just because we are at a state of peace does not mean that that won't change in a split second. We need to make sure that we abide by our laws and do things fairly," Ethan responded. "We can not risk fighting internally when there may be an outside faction coming for us again."
Ethan maintained a watchful eye on the Blue Creek pack. He knew that Alpha Kenneth was cunning even though he tried to push the reputation of a fool being played by his daughter and Alpha. Ethan knew better, he knew the plots he came up with to try to steal other packs as he planted spies to monitor him.
There was a strong possibility that he might try to escape before the Elder Council could hold Brandy's trial. The council needed to ensure that justice was served, and Ethan's duty was to prevent any attempts at evasion.
As the days passed, Lily's curiosity about her grandmother Debra grew stronger. She knew that Debra might hold answers about her mother and her own lineage. Lily was afraid to open that door.
'What's the worst that could happen?' Dina asked.
'So much has happened in the past month or so, can you really ask that in such a nonchalant manner?' Lily responded.
'I can. We beat an Alpha female even while poisoned with Wolfsbane. Whatever that could be revealed, we can handle it,' Dina said proudly.
Lily decided it was time to speak with Ethan about inviting Debra to the castle. She found him in his study, engrossed in some documents.
"Ethan," Lily began, her voice soft yet determined.
Ethan looked up from his work, his intense gaze locking onto hers. "Lily, how can I help you? Is it 7 already? I didn't think you were that eager to beat the game."
"No, no," Lily laughed nervously. "That's not why I am here.I've been thinking... about Luna Debra. I think it might be a good idea to invite her here."
Ethan leaned back in his chair, considering her words. "Inviting your grandmother could indeed provide you with insights into your mother's history and your own heritage."
Lily nodded. "Exactly. I mean, you've been great in explaining Lycan heritage, but I'm not a Lycan. I'm a werewolf who can give birth to Lycans. I need more insight from someone who understands that side of things."
Ethan's lips quirked into a faint smile. "You're right. Debra could offer you a unique perspective that I can't. However,"
'Oh here we go with the but,' Dina whined.
"If I invite her here, then I will have to invite Garrett. I can't afford to look like I'm playing favorites," Ethan explained.
"What about Tiffany?" Lily asked. "She's not a Lycan and you allowed her to come here."
"That is correct, but she's a pride member. It would make sense to allow someone from your pride to see you," Ethan countered. "Luna Debra is only connected to you by blood and you know we value pack and pride bonds higher than blood."
Lily swallowed hard. She thought she had more time to think through her feelings but she needed to speak to Luna Debra before the trial.
'We need to speak with her,' Dina stressed. 'We don't have to make any decisions with him here. We could ignore him flat out. Garrett can't force us to talk to him.'
"Fine," Lily said, flatly. "It is fine if he comes too. Thank you, Ethan. I appreciate your understanding."
"You're upset. It's important for you to have the opportunity to learn about your mother before the trial. I don't know what the end result will be but you need to speak with her sooner than later," Ethan replied sincerely. "I'm here to support you. If you don't want him here longer than a day, I can revoke the invitation."
Lily laughed as she thought about Garrett getting thrown out. She didn't wish any harm to him but a little roughing up wouldn't hurt him. "I'm not upset. I'm overwhelmed. This is a lot to deal with."
Ethan rose from his chair, his imposing presence softened by a genuine kindness. "Then, it is good that you don't want to be my Luna."
"Well, that was a bit blunt," Lily said.
"It's a fact so don't take offense. You will need to get used to dealing with political matters because you will become a Luna to someone. My intentions might be questioned by many, but I genuinely want what's best for you. If having Luna Debra here helps you find clarity and answers, then I fully support it."
"Thank you, Ethan," Lily said, moved by his sincerity.
Ethan inclined his head, acknowledging her words. "Remember, Lily, I may not be the person you want by your side, but I'll always be the one who has your back."
"I won't forget that," Lily said, her heart warmed at his words.
As she left his study, Ethan watched her retreating figure, his thoughts swirling. Once she was out of sight, he picked up his phone and dialed a familiar number. It rang a few times before it was answered.
"Garrett, we need to talk,"