The pack meeting that evening was held in the community center—a generous name for the converted barn that served as their gathering place. Thirty-seven wolves comprised the Moorland pack, making them one of the smallest autonomous territories in Montana. Everyone sat in a rough circle, the hierarchy clearly visible in posture and positioning.

Otto took his usual spot near the back, close enough to hear everything but far enough to avoid drawing attention. As the only Omega in a pack that ...