I glanced up at the commander, not sure why I even sought his approval at all, but he kept his eyes on the werewolf in front of him as he nodded and stepped aside.

I let Doxon lead me over to the next room. A fire was dancing in the hearth, and indeed, achingly comfy-looking chairs were there next to it. But I stopped when I noticed what I’d been about to step onto. I stared down at the contrast between the opulent carpet, its pure white fibers, and my dirty feet.

“It’s all right, my ...