Monday, August 8th 3:15 am

I moved stealthily through the forest, sniffing the air for any sign of approaching scouts as I snuck through the woods. Because of the way I moved the wind was blowing about me, my scent was carried far and wide over the area. However, when infiltrating the area of a wolf, one can never take precautions seriously enough.

As I got closer, I could make out what appeared to be a sizable home. I was aware that they possessed these structures; they refer to them as "packhouses," and their purpose is to concentrate all the members of the pack in a single location so that they are simpler to protect. But not far off, I could see little houses sprinkled around.

If they’re going to live like us, why bother with the grand house? I asked Vix.

Maybe they’re over-compensating for something? I can’t wait to see this Alpha we’ve heard so much about.

Returning my attention to the home, I searched for an unlocked window through which I could enter. These supercilious wolves, who are convinced that no one would dare to mess with them and think they are always right. They were in for a wake-up call when it came to being careful.

After clambering over the ledge and slipping quietly into the room, I noticed that I was in what might be considered a laundry room, if a room with five washers and dryers counted as a laundry room rather than a laundry mat. I slowly crept past the machines and toward the door, which was already cracked. When I peered out into the hallway, there was no sign of life, and I couldn't make out any sounds. I slowly and quietly opened the door, made my way into the hallway, and prayed to whatever watchful eyes might be awake at this ungodly hour that I would remain concealed by the darkness, the light, and the wind.

Moving towards the stairs, I moved quickly up them to the second floor. With the help of the wind, no sound escaped from them as I moved. Once on the second floor, I looked for a suitable place to wait. Most of the rooms on this floor appeared to be empty, so I chose one located next to the stairs, for an easy escape route and because there was a set leading upwards to the third floor. I could only assume that’s where the Alpha and his family slept.

After going over all the information that my mother had given me regarding the pack, I recalled that they are approximately 600 strong and have a young Alpha. It is stated that he rose to power three years after the terrible loss of both of his parents. However, there is a lack of information regarding the accident that led to their deaths. According to the source, his name was either Aziel or Atlas. Which one is it? Alex? I'm not going to bother trying to remember it because it's an A name. After all, the only reason I'm here is to get the ring and take it back to the skulk where it belongs.

I slid my clothes off my body and shifted into fox form. It would be easier to escape and slip through in my smaller fox form. Vix also happens to be one of the fastest runners in our skulk. Not an easy task with all the males vying for the lead. We curled up into a ball next to the bed and waited for the house to wake up.