Night Breed: Wolf Moon: A Dead Hearts Novel, #10

By Susanne L. Lambdin

The Fallen have arrived in Colorado, and it's up to the Dark Angels to protect the Front Range.

Chaska has come of age to take his father's place as High Chief of the Three Wolf Tribes, but something evil stalks them all. While Sheena assists the Dark Angels and researches the true identity of the Fire Lord, trouble arrives in Manitou and Colorado Springs. Wendigo, skinwalkers, and wraiths stalk the forest, and they hunt for Whisper, the missing member of the Earth Corps who travels in the north with a sheepdog named Asmoday.

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Ginger joins a small team to track down Whisper in Montana, only to learn the Native American sites are being used by bloodthirsty demons Below to come Above. Ginger and Micah's coven, shaman Chenoa, and Vulcan must combine their magic against the Fire Lord as his evil allies fight to obtain the Grand Grimoire from Captain Pallaton's library of collected artifacts once belonging to Balan. Written by one of the Fallen, the book contains the true names of demons and spells that can release the last Moirai—Nabessa.

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In the battle between good and evil, the 'Eternal Laws' maintain a fragile balance of power. It's only a matter of time before someone breaks God and Lucifer's rules to turn the tide of war, and when it happens, history may repeat itself as it did in Atlantis.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Susanne Lambdin
• Release date: Jul 21, 2019
• ISBN: 9781393190844

Book preview

NIGHT BREED:

WOLF MOON

A Dead Hearts Novel

Susanne L. Lambdin

Night Breed – Wolf Moon

Copyright © 2019 by Susanne L. Lambdin

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form, or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, write to the author, addressed Attention: Permissions Coordinator, at the email addresses below.

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Author’s Note: This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination. Locales and public names are sometimes used for atmospheric purposes. Any resemblance to actual people, living or dead, or to businesses, companies, events, institutions or locales is completely coincidental.

Cover by A. R. Crebs

Night Breed – Wolf Moon/ Susanne L. Lambdin –1st Edition

ISBN 9781081571665

ALSO BY SUSANNE L. LAMBDIN

A Dead Hearts Novel Series:

Morbid Hearts

Forsaken Hearts

Vengeful Hearts

Defiant Hearts

Immortal Hearts

Bloodlines:

Exordium

Medius

Ultimum

Night Breed:

Blood Moon

Wolf Moon

Storm Moon

The Realm of Magic Trilogy

Seeker of Magic

Mistress of Magic

Queen of Magic

Zombie War: Interviews from the Frontline

For Salina and Jessica.

‘First comes the Dark and the rise of the dead,

Summoned to far shores by an evil wind,

Fanned by desire, blood, and sin,

It fills its victims with hopeless dread.

Next comes Hell’s Fire,

Pure, white, and hot,

Leaving the land a blackened spot,

Burning with sweet, bitter revenge,

Upon the rise of winter’s Wolf Moon,

The Fang arrives in a pack,

Through the woods and high mountains,

With fury and bloodlust, they attack.’

- Ancient Atlantian Prophesy

BELOW

Prologue

The Feast of Fire was an ostentatious event held every thirteenth year. On this occasion, Lord Vassago of Santorum, the third largest kingdom in Hell, had spared no expense. The skeleton of an ancient dragon hung from the rafters, and a thousand black candles in iron stands added a golden light to the immense chamber. Garlands of nightshade decorated black marble pillars and released a fragrant scent from the toxic purple blooms. Arranged on a long table draped with black cloth were giant white pumpkins, grown in the Night Garden, each carved with intricate care to reflect the ghoulish faces of the invited guests.

Two hundred lower demons stood at the sides of the High Table, well enough away not to be smelled but able to gaze at twenty-six demon lords who had accepted invitations. The Fallen had fought beside Lucifer Morningstar in the Great Rebellion, banished to Hell, where they replaced haloes for horns, given fancy titles, palaces, kingdoms, and legions. They sat according to their ranks allotted by Lucifer, the Supreme Ruler of Hell, which changed according to his whims, yet Vassago kept with tradition.

Vesper, a lowly Serval demon, waited to serve the guests, bare feet planted firmly on polished black tiles and dressed in a drab gray tunic. The faceless, toothless beast clasped a large pitcher of wine in its hands. The elite guests dined on a roasted dragon and barbequed horse ribs, cooked slowly for days over fire pits in the kitchen, while a choir of gargoyles provided musical entertainment. Vesper gazed with admiration at Duke Murmur, dressed in his black doublet with a wreath of baby’s breath woven around his ram horns. Count Andromalius chose the head of a black serpent and the body of a man adorned in an ornate purple cloak, while Sir Furcus wore silver plate mail and a red tunic with a white skull stitched on the front. Count Ronovè had marvelous black wings folded around his body to hide the fact he wore no clothes. Duke Dantalion, dark haired and blue eyed, lacked the snobbery of his siblings and sat next to the Estries, three succubi sisters who Vesper found exceedingly beautiful. The eldest, Lamashtu, was as dark as her sister, Akhkazu, was pale, while Strzyga, the youngest, possessed eyes the color of coals and flashed her fangs whenever she flirted with the Duke Dantalion. Ammit, the ‘Terror of Egypt,’ sat beside Gelin, a she-devil from Turkey, and three Vescali princes, Quartel, Mang, and Lurvel.

At the parties I attended in Beverly Hills, you never start to eat a meal before the host and hostess arrive, Livia said, a doppelgänger Vesper had invited. Why are the Nephilim here? Those swine leave their filth on the floor—disgusting.

Vesper curled its lipless mouth into a sneer to reveal a black hole. Many of the Fallen had brought their half-breed children, the Nephilim—grotesque giants who wore little more than loincloths and rags. The Nephilim gnawed on horse carcasses, belched, farted and used the floor as a toilet. Lord Vassago had fathered several of the giants, but Vesper had no idea which ones, as they were equally awful.

Someone will have to clean up the mess, but it will not be me, Vesper muttered. No, it won’t be me.

I ate a Hollywood movie star to look this fabulous. You have no idea how hard it was to ditch the paparazzi in order to find a hell portal. Livia appeared as a beautiful young woman dressed in a slinky black dress and high heels. She wanted to be noticed, and Vesper hated the creature for her beauty.

Servals and doppelgängers lacked gender and distinguishing features, as blank as a chalkboard. To assume a guise, they ate their prey for a longer duration, while a drop of blood sufficed for a quick face change. In all the centuries Vesper had served the Master and Mistress, neither gave permission for the lowly demon to assume a new form, but if its plan worked as intended, this was about to change.

When I received your message, via a small black widow spider, I was genuinely touched, Livia cooed. I thought you had forgotten me.

No, never.

I accepted because I heard Dantalion was coming, Livia said in a snotty tone. Hollywood knows him as the CEO of Talon Entertainment. Humans adore him, and so do I, but this is the first chance I’ve had to meet him.

Livia turned to stare at the handsome Duke. Vesper wondered if his vanity was the cause Lucifer demoted him to last among the Fallen. The doppelgänger had served as Lady Q’Vell’s handmaid until it tasted a drop of her mistress’s blood left on the pin of a brooch from an accidental poke and was exiled as punishment. Vesper knew Livia’s return to Santorum would not please the Mistress, and its gash mouth turned upwards in a sly smile.

Why must you hunch over like a bell ringer? When we were children, you always had terrible posture, Vesper. Stand straight if you want to be noticed.

Vesper ignored Livia, for at a horned imp struck the gong three times. The guests and the gargoyle choir fell silent. The imp yanked on a long red rope to open drapes that hung from ceiling to floor, which parted to reveal a painting of a grand staircase used as a portal to enter the Hall of Souls.

Lord Vassago and Lady Q’Vell, the imp screeched in a high-pitched voice.

Under loud applause, Lord Vassago and Lady Q’Vell descended the stairs. Vassago chose the form of a red-skinned demon with large black horns, and his cloven hooves tapped on the stairs. He escorted his lovely wife, Q’Vell, a pale blue demon with smaller horns hidden by a crown. Q’Vell held a gold chain attached to the collar of a gray werewolf with red eyes. At her husband’s side, they walked the length of the table, greeting guests, until they reached a golden bench large enough for two.

Apologies for our tardiness, dear friends and family, Lord Vassago said and lifted his cup. Affairs abroad prevent Lucifer from attending the feast. Nevertheless, raise your glasses—to the Morningstar!

The guests stood, lifted their goblets, and quaffed the contents. Vassago and his wife sat together on their golden bench, a signal for the Fallen and lower demons to return to their seats, and the music commenced.

Vesper turned to Gruda, a sad little lump of flesh that had used ash from a fire pit to draw a happy face on its blank slate of a face.

Mark my word, Gruda. Tonight, I will be chosen for an important task.

Yes, you’ll be first to clean up after the Nephilim. Gruda wiped its fingers across the hole that served for a mouth and smudged its ash-smile. You’re nothing, Vesper, just like me. No one notices us. No one cares.

Duke Dantalion remained on his feet and shouted, Brother Vassago! I must speak to you! At a nod from his older brother, the duke’s black wings appeared. He flew over the table and landed beside the seated host and his wife.

Well? What is it? Vassago asked.

"I want to know what you intend to do about avenging the deaths of Prince Balan and his family. The Earth Corps is responsible for killing the High Lord of Atlantis, his sister, and his two eldest sons. Prince Stolas, his third son, has visited me at Tranquility to ask for my help, the duke said. Since my recent disagreement with Lucifer has left me with limited resources, I can only do so much. Stolas’ brothers, Quartel, Mang, and Lurvel, came here tonight to ask for your help, and I, being friends with the Vescalis, agreed to speak on their behalf."

Many of us remain angry Lucifer gave Balan and his sister Lilith the island of Atlantis to rule, Vassago said, unmoved. It was the folly of his children that caused Lucifer to destroy the island. This is a trifling matter and one you should be able to handle, Dantalion. Why should I bother to help Prince Stolas?

"The Earth Corps is championed by President Logan Bennet, a vampire who traveled to Atlantis and stole Balan’s magical sword. Logan created ripples in the fabric of time that affected all of us. I am not the only one who awoke to find my coffers bare and servants no longer present in my palace. Logan also protects the Betrayer. Pallaton was the former captain of the Shadowguard who turned against Prince Balan and helped the Earth Corps kill him. Pallaton now leads the Dark Angels and remains unpunished. Balan was an Axon demon, here before any of us, and if Lucifer does not help avenge his dead friend, then we must before the Earth Corps and Dark Angels decide to kill us."

We want revenge, the demon lords shouted. Fists pounded on the table to rouse the hellhounds feasting on bones beneath and sent a scurry of Servals racing to the table to refill the spilled goblets of wines. In the rafters flitted spirituals that howled in excitement, a cacophony that grew in intensity until the noise in the hall was deafening.

Silence! Vassago roared. Black smoke spewed from his nostrils. His dark eyes skewered his guests, who quickly quieted, then he continued. I sympathize with Stolas, for my wife feels the loss of Balan as well. Again, I ask. Why should I intervene when Lucifer and Astaroth are not troubled?

Captain Pallaton destroyed Prince Balan with the help of his twin brother, Chief Chayton of the Cheyenne Mountain Wolf Tribe, Dantalion said, unshaken by the tense atmosphere. When the Battle of the Citadel ended, the twins entered Balan’s former palace to steal his magical books and enchanted items. Pallaton now keeps these items in his mansion. Who is to say what he will do with these books? The old gods who have joined the Earth Corps can read these books and may decide to attack us. Is that not cause for action, brother?

Vassago grabbed his cup of wine and emptied it in one gulp.

I suspect one of these books belongs to you. Well, which one are you after?

"The Grand Grimoire!"

No one spoke. No one moved.

The true names of the Fallen are contained in that book as well as powerful magic spells, Dantalion said in a grave voice. Lucifer wiped my memory after I wrote it, so I cannot duplicate the writing, and in the hands of the Betrayer, it will not be long before Pallaton uses it against us. He is power hungry. Balan never should have trusted him, but he did, and he paid the ultimate price for trusting a lowly vampire.

This is a serious problem, Vassago, Count Andromalius said as he swirled his finger inside his goblet. My own magic pales in comparison to what is inside of that precious book. I have promised to help the Vescalis. So have many of your guests. As you have the largest armed forces, we turn to you to oversee this war.

"Perhaps your kingdoms are in jeopardy but not Santorum, Vassago said in disgust. Stolas’ father started the Shadow War against the creatures of Earth. I will consider it, Danny. Right now, I need more wine! His dark eyes turned to Livia, and he motioned for her to refill his glass. She approached with a bowed head. Her pitcher contained only a few drops, and she cringed when the demon lord frowned. What’s this? he asked. A Serval would know better than approach me with an empty pitcher! Who brought a fetch into my hall?"

Vesper scurried forward to slide around Dantalion and bowed before the Master and Mistress. The werewolf under the table took one sniff at Vesper and lunged. Sharp fangs sunk deep into Vesper’s ankle, the pain intense and sharp. In a rage, the demon poured wine over the beast’s shaggy head then commenced to beat King Lycaon across the brow with the pitcher. Cut and bloodied, the werewolf withdrew beneath the table, snarling, while Vesper anticipated a severe beating and cherished bruises.

Vesper? Did I give you leave to invite a guest to the Feast of Fire?

Yes, Lord Vassago.

Why?

Because, Lord, I serve you well.

That you do, Vassago said, chuckling.

Brother! Don’t dismiss this matter as if it’s not worth your time. Dantalion pushed Vesper aside and stood with his hands on his hips. Neither Lucifer nor Astaroth came tonight because they fear nothing. As second in line to inherit the Throne of Hell from Lucifer, it is for you to set an example. Show our siblings and lower demons that you care about our welfare, and you will always have our support.

Vassago turned to his wife. What do you think, my love? Shall I help my brother and his Vescali friends?

The Mistress nibbled on a leg of the dragon and paused between bites to respond.

Stolas and I shared the same human parents before the rulers of Atlantis turned us into demons, she said. I am obliged to help the Vescalis. As my husband, I would think you would want to champion this great cause. Honor and glory will be yours if you do, and it will please me, of course.

Very well, dear wife, Vassago said with a sigh. I will send General Togol of the Tarqali with five legions to help you, Danny. I suggest a clever spy steals this book out from under the Dark Angels’ noses. But whom should be sent?

I can do it, Master! I can do anything, Vesper blurted.

One so eager to please cannot fail, Vassago replied. You will need a disguise. I give permission for you to assume the likeness of my wife’s pet.

Vesper lifted the pitcher and licked off the werewolf’s blood. With a shiver, the blank page that served as the demon’s face altered into a muzzle, and then her form changed into that of a giant gray werewolf.

"The Eternal Laws state, ‘For every demon that goes Above, one must return Below,’" Vassago said with a smile. "Here in Tranquility, I require a blood sacrifice."

Q’Vell screamed, Kill the fetch!

With a swift lunge, Vesper sunk its new fangs into the doppelgänger’s soft throat. Rich, warm blood filled its mouth, and laughter filled the hall. Delighted its plan worked, Vesper trotted to a painting of a snowstorm in the mountains―one of many hell portals in the room. Vesper jumped into a blizzard, and with a snarl, headed toward Colorado to carry out its master’s bidding.

CHASKA

Chapter One

With the rise of the Wolf Moon, on the first month of a new year, silver light shone on the Garden of the Gods and created looming shadows against the backdrop of the tall red rocks. Chaska watched the play of light on the stones as he stood in an outcrop with his guardians, Moon Dog and Red Hawk. Two moons after the death of his father, Chief Chayton, the Twin Peaks and Sawatch Wolf Tribes gathered with his own. If he wanted to be High Chief of the Three Tribes, he had to fight for the right to be leader, for that was the law. Anxious, Chaska paced in the snow. His large paws left a unique patchwork design as he wondered who intended to challenge him and if he was strong enough to win.

Chaska, calm down.

Black as night with a strip of white on the end of his tail, Moon Dog was a large, formidable wolf, and one of Chaska’s guardian. When the young wolf did not heed his advice and continued to pace in the snow, he raised his voice.

You are the largest wolf in the Three Tribes. Use that size to your advantage against the challengers. Moon Dog glanced at his brother, Red Hawk—a lean red wolf. The two of us trained you. So did the Luna’s werepuma pride, as well as your uncle Pallaton―a vampire. In speed and power, you have no rival. Stop pacing and clear your thoughts, for soon, you’ll be summoned to the Circle.

An image of Luna and her werepuma pride entered Chaska’s mind. For weeks, they had trained on Pikes Peak a pounce-and-rip tactic. They never played with their prey, struck fast, and were lethal. From his uncle, the vampire, he learned stealth and patience to wait for the right moment to attack. Moon Dog and Red Hawk fought in the traditional manner of his tribe—men who fought as wolves but without the natural instinct to show no mercy, but Chaska was not a shapeshifter. A single drop of blood from Commander Cadence of the Earth Corps kept him in his animal form, but he was not a real wolf either.

Red Hawk sat on his haunches to scratch behind his ear. When you’re the size of a barn, it’s not much of a match, he said. Why does Chaska even have to fight? His father was born a chief in a long line of succession. This is a waste of time. We should be out there hunting down the Night Breed.

Guys, I’m right here! Chaska growled. I’m big, we’ve established that, and I have trained with the best, but I’m not ready to lead. Can Ahiga postpone the fight another month? Why must it be tonight?

It’s your birthday, Moon Dog said. You are two years old as a wolf, but in human years, you are fourteen, Chaska―a teenager! Both tribes are here, as this is the Wolf Moon, and they always gather each January to celebrate. On top of that, at least two challengers have stepped forward to be the next High Chief. It has to be tonight, but you have no reason to worry. Do you remember what the Voice of the Mountain told you? You’re destined for great things! On this night, you will assume your father’s place and lead the three tribes. Believe in yourself, and it will happen.

You can’t rely on mumbo jumbo from an oversized tree zombie, Red Hawk quipped. Moon Dog glared at him. Okay, sure. Your hard work will pay off, Chaska. There’s no doubt about it, and you’ll defeat whoever challenges you, even if they are middle-aged men with really hairy backs as humans or wolves.

You’re not helping, brother, Moon Dog snarled.

Who am I up against? Chaska asked, worried.

We’re not supposed to tell you, but you can beat them.

Well then, tell me how the Voice knows I’m the one to lead the tribes.

The giant chose the name Caretaker, for that is what he is, Chaska, Moon Dog said. Mother Nature made Caretaker with ancient magic to guard these mountains. I believe he knows something about the future, but your past also plays an important role in your destiny. On the night of your conception, your parents mated as wolves. Your mother chose to be a wolf to deliver you. Chenoa delivered a big, fat pup, while other shifters give birth as humans and have little babies. You are different. What happened two years ago on this very night was special. It never happened before or since, and that makes you a pureblood, Chaska―one of a kind.

Chaska gazed at the full moon, able to make out a face among the craters with a large eye that seemed to stare down at him.

Three weeks after he was born, he had met Commander Cadence in the Cave of the Winds. A playful nip on her hand drew blood. Already infected with a mutating virus, the immortal commander’s blood had changed his life forever. Chameleon Blood. This was what they called Cadence’s blood, and all humans who ritualistically drank it turned into immortals. It cured zombies, killed vampires, and any shifter who tasted it remained an animal forever. Moon Dog was right, and he believed her magical blood had accelerated Chaska’s growth spurt. Even when he was a pup, his paws were so large it made it difficult not to knock things over in the cave, and he was always tripping over himself. By the time his body caught up with his feet, he had towered over the adult wolves and had trained hard to turn his clumsiness into agility, his muscles strong.

Sure, you’ll win, Chaska, Red Hawk said. No one stands a chance against you. When the challengers see how large you’ve grown, they’ll probably die of shock.

But I’m too inexperienced to lead. Chaska gazed toward shadows that lurked at the base of the rocks and bristled. The Fire Lord is watching us. I feel like a walking target. That demon killed my father, and he wants to kill me. Say I do win and make a wrong decision. Others could die because of me. When the demon came to Moon Fall and possessed my father then cursed my mother, neither one of them were prepared. They trusted two skinwalkers. Now my dad is dead, and my mother is dying. Say I do win and become high chief. How can I defeat the Fire Lord?

Red Hawk sighed. He certainly doesn’t think like a two-year-old.

No, he does not, Moon Dog said. Chaska, you analyze everything before you act, while a child does not. You see the bigger picture. Right now, focus on winning. Your opponents are men who turn into wolves, which means they think like men in battle, while you are a wolf and rely on your animal instincts. After you win, then we’ll worry about how to defeat the Fire Lord, for it is your destiny to lead us.

"Destiny," Chaska whispered.

A lone howl pierced the night.

With a quiver of excitement, Chaska turned and slammed his big paws onto the hard-packed snow with a loud crunch. His heartbeat quickened. He recognized Stephen’s voice, the omega in his own tribe, and a little dribble of urine hit the snow.

It’s time, kiddo. Let’s go, Moon Dog said and trotted forward.

The brothers flanked Chaska as they ran along the path, passing the tall rock formations. As they came around the side, a breeze blew snowflakes into Chaska’s face at a horizontal angle and tickled his nose. Strange odors were detectable on the wind. He smelled each of the wolves from the Cheyenne Mountain, Sawatch, and Twin Peaks Wolf Tribes, each distinct. Fear, anger, and excitement each produced their own scent too, along with the stronger aroma of urine. He started to pant and found it difficult to swallow the lump in his throat.

There is still time to select a champion, Red Hawk said, gazing sideways at Chaska. Your mother wants you to pick Stephen or Moon Dog. You will still be High Chief if they fight in your place. No one will think less of you.

It’s not a bad idea to choose a proxy, Moon Dog said. I would be honored to fight for you, Chaska. Stephen was a champion in the ‘Death Games’ and has more kills than anyone in the three tribes.

I must fight my own battles, Chaska said, resolved to win or die. Last night, I prayed to our gods for guidance, but I don’t know if they heard me. He paused when the wind whispered his name. He knew it was up to them to decide if he was worthy of leading and again thought of his training. For weeks, he had practiced tactics, and his tutor, Doctor Crane, had told him about ‘muscle memory.’ Instinctively, he should know what to do, but still, he doubted his chances in the arena.

Even if it’s a fight to the death? Red Hawk asked.

Chaska came to a halt. What are you talking about? Moon Dog?

This was Ahiga’s idea, not your father’s, Moon Dog said. Ahiga took charge when your father died. He thought a battle to the death would discourage anyone from challenging you. Red Hawk and I are referees, but Ahiga is the master of ceremony. Two challengers will fight until first blood is drawn and the victor advances to fight you. No one from our tribe has challenged you. One bite is all it takes, so go for the throat and don’t let go.

A second howl pierced the night.

We must go, Red Hawk said. Hold your head high when we enter the inner sanctum, Chaska. Be brave like your father, for I’m sure he’s watching.

Chaska lifted his eyes to the moon where he clearly saw the form of a wolf on its hind legs, but if it was a sign from the gods, its meaning was unclear. He tried to clear his mind as they came around a giant rock formation known as the Kissing Camels, able to see moonlight fill the gap between two boulders shaped like the heads of camels in a kiss. He heard growls, and the pungent odor of the wolves grew stronger as they entered a clearing where hundreds of wolves formed three large circles. The Twin Peaks and Sawatch tribes stood in the outer circle, while the youngest members of his tribe filled the center ring. The Cheyenne Mountain’s oldest wolves, as well as honorary members of their tribe, waited in the inner circle. Able to see over the heads of the gathered tribes, Chaska focused on a cloud of white smoke that drifted up from a large bonfire that crackled and popped.

A path opened to allow his entrance with his guardians. It struck Chaska at that moment that his uncle Pallaton would have been High Chief, had he not been a vampire, but he looked proud to be included in the contest. Pallaton stood beside Luna—a beautiful girl with long white hair—and Barbarella, Sheena, Skye, and Lily. On the opposite side of the bonfire lay his mother, Chenoa—a large white wolf—on a blanket. It had taken a great effort for her to leave the cave to watch him fight. Stephan, a muscular white wolf, and his tutor, Crane—black as ink—sat on either side of Chenoa and acted as her bodyguards. Moon Dog and Red Hawk led Chaska up to his uncle.

Chaska, stay with Pallaton. Your uncle will present when Ahiga opens the ceremony, Moon Dog said and glanced at his brother. Come on.

Good luck, Chaska, Red Hawk whispered.

His guardians trotted up to Ahiga, his father’s second-in-command who Chaska assumed he would pick as well, provided he won. Ahiga was a powerful gray wolf flanked by three male wolves of impressive size. Chaska recognized Stone Mountain, a pale gray wolf covered with dozens of scars from old fights. One particularly gruesome scar crossed over his muzzle. He made eye contact with Chaska and snarled. The other two wolves were Chief Lakota of the Twin Peaks tribe, and Chief Huron of the Sawatch, a massive tan brute with white scruff under his chin.

You look fit and ready to fight, nephew, Pallaton said. His eyes glowed violet, a sign he was excited, and his fangs had descended.

Who else besides Stone Mountain challenges me? Chaska asked.

Pallaton leaned closer. Chief Huron as well as a third wolf whose name has not been disclosed yet, he whispered. Your father made it clear it has to be an evenly matched contest. It wouldn’t be fair for one wolf to fight two challengers and then you, so a fourth must step forward or one must withdraw.

I wouldn’t mind if they all withdrew their challenges, Chaska muttered.

Hey, buddy! Luna, the leader of the werepuma pride, approached. Her hair was long and white even in human form. Bundled in a parka and wearing snow boots, she looked warm and comfortable. We overheard a few wolves talking, she said. Nukpana is the third challenger. Ahiga says a female cannot be chief, but you know how I feel about ‘girl power.’

Chaska felt his heart sink. But she’s from my tribe, he said, watching Ahiga argue with the challengers at the fireside. Nukpana stood at the edge of the circle. Her eyes narrowed into slits when she glanced at him.

You can beat any of them, Luna said with confidence.

His anxiousness grew as the crowd stirred. Huron and Stone Mountain stood back as Ahiga trotted forward. Nukpana lowered to the ground, not submissive, but eager to dash into the circle to fight.

Bring the son of Chief Chayton forward, Ahiga ordered in a rasping voice.

Chaska sensed hatred for Pallaton from the tribes as his uncle led him forward. On the front of his parka was a patch from the Golden Hills Police Department, for he was the captain, and with only three stations in the city, he had the most significant portion to oversee. An eyepatch over his left eye added to his formidable appearance, but Chaska knew most remembered him as the Captain of the Shadowguards who had menaced the mountains during the reign of Prince Balan. Few wolves knew his uncle had spied for the Dark Angels, and as wolves started to growl, Chaska wondered if he might have to defend his uncle.

Who escorts Chaska into the inner sanctum? Ahiga asked in a rumbling voice. As Chief Chayton’s second-in-command, he had every right to offer a challenge. Not only was he large and powerfully built, but he was also intelligent, yet seemed content to step aside to serve whoever won the contest.

Captain Pallaton, twin brother of Chief Chayton. I renounce my ancestral right to be chief and support my nephew.

You are a Long Tooth with no right to lead us. Return to the inner circle, Ahiga ordered. He waited until Pallaton rejoined the Moon Girls before he addressed the tribes. Are there any others who desire to challenge for the right to be our next High Chief? Speak now!

Chief Lakota joined his tribe and left Chief Huron, Stone Mountain, and Nukpana in the ring. Stone Mountain bared his sharp teeth and snarled. Huron appeared overconfident and held his head high. Slender with tawny fur, Nukpana was smaller than the two males but fierce.

According to the laws of High Chief Chayton, an equal number of wolves must compete but may not to exceed ten. Ahiga gazed at the crowd. We have two challengers, for Nukpana, as a female, may not fight. Chief Lakota, has Twin Peaks another challenger?

Lakota shook his head. No, my tribe supports Chaska, he said.

Chief Huron, Ahiga continued, the Sawatch has offered two names. Is there another from your tribe who wants to challenge for the right to lead the Three Tribes?

There better not be, Huron said in a deep, scratchy voice. I made it clear no female from my tribe is to fight. Nukpana is with the Cheyenne Mountain tribe. She must leave the arena. No female is suitable to lead us.

Nukpana suddenly lunged at Chief Huron. Her fangs slid across his shoulder and cut deep. Before she had time to inflict more damage, Moon Dog and Red Hawk darted forward and caught Nukpana by her hind legs. Dragged off Huron by the referees, Nukpana struggled to get free, but the two males were stronger. Moon Dog locked onto the nape of her neck while Red Hawk placed his front paws onto her back to hold her to the ground. Huron was not seriously injured. After a brief discussion with Ahiga, it was agreed Huron would fight Stone Mountain. Chaska assumed Huron had fought Stone Mountain in the past to retain his place as chief of the Sawatch. Ahiga approached a subdued Nukpana. Chaska felt sorry for her. Females had every right to be a chief, but it was not his place to interfere.

Nukpana! No challenger can attack another out of turn. Nor can a female compete. As you have broken two laws, you leave me no other choice. Henceforth, you are exiled from the Three Wolf Tribes! Ahiga lifted his head. Let no one offer her sanctuary or risk exile themselves. Referees! Remove Nukpana from the circle and escort her out of the Garden of the Gods. If she returns, she will be killed!

Silence fell over the combined tribes as Moon Dog and Red Hawk released Nukpana then led her out of the circle. With her tail between her legs, she kept her eyes on the ground in shame. Chaska expected Ahiga would call a recess or at least allow Chief Huron to recover from his injury, but neither of the male contestants waited. Bloodied and enraged from the incident, Chief Huron eagerly faced off against Stone Mountain. Nearly equal in size and bulk, Chaska wondered if the old chief still had the power to defeat the gray brute and quickly moved out of the way with Ahiga as the challengers slammed together and savagely bit at each other’s necks. Long claws tore through flesh and blood flowed on the ground, which made it difficult to tell which wolf claimed first blood. The pair broke apart as the tribes howled in excitement, but Ahiga did not put an end to the fight.

To the death, Ahiga roared, his eyes flashing in excitement.

The pair circled the fire and glared at each other until Stone Mountain suddenly leaped over the flames to slam into Chief Huron. The big wolves rolled across the snow, snapping and biting. Huron managed to jump to his feet and landed on Stone Mountain’s back, eager to go for his throat. After a hard tussle, Stone Mountain threw Huron off, and with a snarl, looped toward the fire, and again they circled it, snarling in rage. Huron passed close to Chaska. Lacerations covered the older wolf and dribbled blood in the snow. Halfway around the circle, Huron paused, and for some reason, turned into a man. He was just as impressive in human form, with broad shoulders and bulging biceps, but he was older than Chaska thought and well into his forties. In response, Stone Mountain transformed into a man. Long, lank gray hair hung down a square face, and his nose hung at an odd angle, broken many times in the past.

With a flurry of footwork, Huron showed off the skills of a trained boxer and repeatedly slammed his fists into Stone Mountain’s taut stomach, as if pounding a slab of meat. Then he threw an uppercut that connected with his opponent’s chin, but Stone Mountain remained on his feet, a ‘southpaw,’ whose left swing lifted Huron off his feet and sent the chief flying across the ground. Stone Mountain stalked toward Huron, not waiting to give him time to recover, and fell on top of him, pounding the chief in the chest with his hands clasped together. The crack of ribs caused Chaska to shiver, and he watched, horrified, as Stone Mountain turned into a wolf and ripped out Huron’s throat. It was a dirty move, Chaska thought, and fatal. Huron gurgled as his body twitched then lay still. The Sawatch howled a mournful cry in response. However, Stone Mountain was not finished and buried his nose into Huron’s neck. With a crunch, he snapped Huron’s spine in half, and when he finally lifted his head to glare at the crowd, it was slick with his former chief’s blood. The howls silenced. Remorseless, Stone Mountain climbed on top of the body and stared at Chaska. With a loud roar, spittle and blood flew from his jaws.

Someone drag this trash away. I need room to kill this oversized whelp!

Stone Mountain jumped off Huron’s body and trotted toward the fire, eyeing Chaska with glowing yellow orbs. Chaska stepped forward.

Why do you hesitate, pup? Perhaps the Wolf Man of the Death Games should fight for you? Stone Mountain snarled. At least we know Stephen can fight!

Hold on! Stephen shouted in a throaty voice. I am not only the Cheyenne’s omega but a deputy. He glanced at Pallaton. Stone Mountain is wanted for murder in Kansas. I recognize his human face from a wanted poster. His real name is ‘Harvey Stone.’ This happened before the Scourge, but we know why he joined the Sawatch.

What’s this? Ahiga turned to Stone Mountain, clearly agitated by the omega’s accusation, left in a quandary on how to proceed. Is that true?

It was in self-defense, Stone Mountain growled.

Sergeant Babineaux says it’s Harvey Stone. The fight is over. We’re taking him in, Pallaton said as he entered the circle. He unzipped his coat to withdraw his gun. The wolves started to growl in protest, and he lifted his hands. Now just hold on everyone, he said. You heard Stephen. You don’t seriously want Chayton’s son to fight a wanted murderer?

Ahiga’s silence lasted as long as it took for Pallaton and Stephen to stand together. The contest has already started, the gray wolf said. "Your laws are not ours, Captain Pallaton. Chaska must fight or forfeit—that is our law."

You heard Ahiga, Stone Mountain snarled. Fight or forfeit, whelp! He turned into a wolf and attacked.

With youthful enthusiasm, Chaska bolted forward, showing no fear as Moon Dog had taught him and slammed into Stone Mountain. The sheer size and weight of Chaska’s oversized body sent his opponent flying backward into the flame. Stone Mountain let out a yelp, leaped from the fire, and ran toward Chaska. He dropped low and dove underneath the young wolf’s body. Chaska felt fangs sink into his belly, tearing flesh, and he lowered his head to bite one of Stone Mountain’s front legs. He remembered what his uncle had taught him, and bit down hard until he heard the bone snap. His opponent howled in pain, but Chaska held on. With a flip of his head, he pulled Stone Mountain from beneath his body and flung him aside. The gray wolf collided with the front line of wolves and instantly sprang up. Mindless of the injury, he raced toward Chaska and attacked.

With a mighty leap, Stone Mountain opened his jaws and snapped at Chaska’s throat, but the young wolf reared like a stallion and brought his front legs down onto Stone Mountain’s back. The gray wolf flattened to the ground and tried to wiggle out from under Chaska’s big front paws. Unable to grip his opponent’s throat, Chaska sank his fangs into his opponent’s shoulder and chewed off a chunk of muscle. A hard yank tore away flesh and splattered the snow with blood, while his opponent’s howls ringed in his ears along with the shouts and cheers of the crowd.

Do you surrender? Ahiga shouted from the sidelines.

Never, Stone Mountain snarled.

Chaska jumped off the wolf to allow the challenger to stand. Stone Mountain raised his broken leg. Blood gushed from the gaping wound in his shoulder, yet he relied on sheer determination to continue to fight and lunged at the young red wolf. Chaska thought of the Moon Girls as he used his front paw to smack the gray wolf across the muzzle. The force of the blow knocked Stone Mountain over backward, and like a werepuma, he sprang on top of the challenger. Stone Mountain snarled and snapped, refusing to accept defeat. Chaska opened his jaws wide and wholly enclosed the wolf’s head in his mouth, who found the tight fit prevented him from biting back. Closing his jaws, Chaska’s fangs sunk into soft throat tissue, but he noticed his mother watching and hesitated.

Kill him, Ahiga roared.

In an instant, Stone Mountain turned into a man. He placed his hands inside of Chaska’s mouth and attempted to pry open his jaws. Chaska refused to kill a human. He spat out Stone Mountain’s head, confused as to why Ahiga did not stop the fight, and stepped back. The transition from wolf to man was a mistake, and Stone Mountain sunk to his knees, holding his broken left arm against his chest. A large portion of flesh from his shoulder was missing, too severe of a wound for him to continue to fight. Stone Mountain was beaten, and he hung his head in defeat.

Get it over with, pup.

No, Chaska said with a shake of his head. Not caring what anyone thought, he spoke from the heart. I am not like you. I will not kill in cold blood. My father was honorable. He picked Lakota and Huron because they were good men. A man like you is not fit to lead the Three Wolf Tribes.

The young wolf glanced at Ahiga, but he remained silent.

It’s all right, Chaska, Stephen said. Babs and Luna are police officers. The other girls are deputies like me. Just let your uncle handle this and say nothing else.

Mr. Stone, you’re under arrest, Pallaton announced as he drew his revolver on the injured man. Wolves at the front started to growl. Everyone just stay calm. This man is coming with us. I believe Chief Chayton always said you were humans before you were animals, so don’t prove him wrong.

Barbarella pulled Stone Mountain to his feet, brought his arms forward while he whimpered, and Luna handcuff him. Pallaton and the Moon Girls escorted Stone Mountain out of the circle, but Stephen remained at Chaska’s side. As soon as they departed, Ahiga addressed the tribes.

Young Chaska has displayed strength and skill as a warrior and great wisdom this night, Ahiga said in a firm voice. "According to our laws, Chaska is High Chief of the Cheyenne Mountain, Twin Peaks, and Sawatch tribes. Show him your respect!"

In unison, the wolves bowed their heads.

I did it…I really did, Chaska whispered, able to see tiny white clouds puff out of his muzzle from his overheated breath. It seemed far colder than it had seconds earlier, and he sensed a presence, yet no one else reacted.

‘I never thought you would lose, Son,’ a ghostly voice said.

A soft golden light appeared beside Chaska while the wolves continued to howl, unable to see what he did. His eyes widened as his father and Grandmother’s spirits appeared. Dressed in ceremonial robes, they looked magnificent, yet he could see Ahiga through their bodies watching him. This was not the first time his family’s ancestral spirits had appeared, but Chaska was confused for they failed to reveal themselves to everyone else. He glanced at his mother, who appeared weaker. Crane and Stephen made a fuss over her, trying to coax her into singing. When he turned back to his father, a sorrowful expression appeared, and it dawned on the young chief that his ancestors had another reason for their visit.

‘I am proud of you,’ Chayton said. Tall, with long black hair, he was identical to Pallaton except for his voice, which sounded less harsh, and he smiled with ease. ‘It is up to you to protect our people, for you are strong and fierce. To rule wisely, you must temper your physical power with your intellect and show restraint when necessary and take action when called for. As you suspect, we are here to take your mother to the Shadow World. Chenoa will not live through the night, Son. Grandmother and I have come to take her with us.’

Father, there has to be a way to save Mother, Chaska said.

Ahiga stopped singing to stare at Chaska and then at the empty space the young chief addressed. Seeing nothing, the old wolf lifted his head to howl at the moon.

‘Your mother has the ‘ghost sickness,’ his father said. ‘The Fire Lord’s hold on her has drained the last of her energy, but we will take care of her, Son. In the days ahead, the tribes will need your guidance. Chenoa and Crane have prepared you to lead, and soon, the tribes will come to appreciate your worth.’

‘The Fire Lord knows you are now High Chief. Beware of his spies,’ Grandmother said, her wizened features softening with a look of tenderness. ‘Trust your instincts, and never doubt your right to lead, for you were born to be the high chief of the three tribes. You are young, but you are strong, physically, mentally, and spiritually. You frequently pray to our gods, and they have heard you, Chaska…but if you need us, your parents and I will not be far away.’

The apparitions approached Chenoa who blinked several times and finally saw them. Chayton knelt beside his wife and stroked his hand across her brow, and the pain eased from her face. Chaska ran to his mother, his thoughts troubled, and he was unsure what to say to her. A sudden spark in the bonfire caused the flames to shoot upwards, and the wolves stopped howling and growled. In the fire appeared a tall woman in a brown leather tunic, knee-high boots, and a long green cloak. Across her shoulders hung a long green bow, along with a quiver filled with yellow and blue feathered arrows. She stepped out of the flames unharmed.

It’s Phoenix, Stephen said. There’s no reason for anyone to be alarmed. She is a member of the Earth Corps. Chaska’s father made their team honorary members of our tribe, and she is welcome here. But why did you come?

To help Chenoa, Phoenix said. She sprinted to Chaska’s mother, knelt on one knee, and placed her hand over the white wolf’s heart. There’s still time to save her, Chaska, but I must act quickly. She placed both hands on the white wolf. Your mother has nearly crossed into the Shadow World, she said. Do I have your approval to save her?

Yes, please, Phoenix. I love my mother. I can’t lose her, Chaska said. He smelled Ahiga before he heard him approach. Send the tribes to Pikes Peak. Crane and Stephen will stay with us. We’ll join you as soon as we can.

This immortal means to give your mother her blood. You know what will happen if she does, Ahiga said. Once Chenoa tastes it, she will remain a wolf…forever.

That’s not true. My blood is different from Cadence’s, Phoenix said in a firm voice. Removing a leather band off her forearm, she held out her wrist. Chaska, your mother must drink my blood. I swear it will heal her and not keep her as a wolf. All Chameleons in the Earth Corps have special gifts. Mine is the ability to heal all injuries and sickness.

Chaska dropped to his haunches. How is this possible?

When I was Artemis, a goddess in ancient Greece, my purity gave me unlimited power, she explained. It is the same now. My sister, Athena, is able to heal with the touch of her hands, and Apollo can restore life. Neither was able to make this journey, but I know what I am doing. Trust me.

Don’t allow it, young chief. It’s a trick, Ahiga snarled.

Chaska told you to send the tribes to the Peak, Stephen growled as Chaska moved closer to his mother. Do what he says, Ahiga.

You’re only the omega. You have no right to give me orders.

Enough, Chaska growled. Phoenix came to save my mother. I gave you an order, Ahiga, so see that it’s done. He turned to the young woman. If your blood can cure my mother, can it allow me to be a true shifter and turn human?

You’re an immortal, Chaska, which is how I was able to fire-hop to your side. This was Cadence’s gift to you when you tasted her blood, Phoenix said. If I give you my blood, you will turn into a helpless toddler in diapers, grow old, and die. But you will never be able to shift into your wolf form.

Then save my mother. That’s all I want.

As soon as Ahiga led the wolves away, Phoenix drew a knife and slit her wrist. She held the wound against Chenoa’s mouth, and a pink tongue licked at the blood. A second later, her tail thumped, and Phoenix withdrew her wrist.

Are you all right, Mother? Is the curse broken? Chaska asked, sniffing at his mother’s face. The sickly odor had vanished.

I feel strong, Chenoa said and stood. With a quick shake