The musicians played softly in the background as we waited for the elders and other guests to find their seats and settle down. Raymond was having a conversation with Rual and Justin. I paid little attention as it sounded like they were talking about the process that was about to happen. Then what most were waiting for arrived: the king of the werewolves arrived; the room stood and bared their necks to them. Rual and I stood but did not bow or show any sign of submission; they were of equal status, and no man or woman, and I felt good not to have to bow to the king.
The king strode down the hall to the main table, stood before Rual and me, and then did something no one would ever dream the king would do. He bowed to me, a low bow, one I knew he meant with all of his heart.
‘Welcome, your
