A New Reign: Jabbar Junayd

A white yearling then came to Rawbones' side, and though the youth was in her step, it was not in her eyes or the rest of her body language. Skyfall paused, intrigued by her serious disposition, even as Rawbones licked her ear in familial comfort. She didn't even seem phased by such a notion. It was strange, the way the youth's eyes locked on him, like she was trying to see through him. Well, what would she see? He had many secrets, many untold tales, many scars hidden in his silver fur. Whatever she was trying to see, he wasn't sure that she could.

The timber nodded as Rawbones explained that Akiko was the Betess. She had made the call to come, so that made sense, but... What of the Alpha? Not many packs ran without one. At Rawbones' next question of where he came from or what he was drawn to here, he paused, and looked over his shoulder. The snow was still falling, but his tracks were still visible. "I come from over the mountains, but if you're asking for where I was born, I can tell you that it was also beyond the mountains, and in a shallow valley near the coast. As for what I'm doing here, this happened to be the first pack I encountered," he responded, speaking of places instead of reasons. They didn't need to know the reasons.

Nodding in agreement, Blade said, "We'll stay. Looking for the elk isn't an option yet." Nuzzling Petra, he suggested, "You get a head start on that rest. We'll get the herbs." Akiko knew where they were, and would eventually release the pack to return, as he'd assumed Echo was probably at Damean's side by now, meaning a safe return. He'd have gotten a start on seeking the elk trail and where it went, but without more able bodies knowing his whereabouts, it wasn't a good idea. Petra needed rest, and he wasn't sure how much she'd get once the pack returned, and Niveus didn't know the lands.
He'd wait for her response and actions before he moved himself, in case she was partly using him as support. Turning to his kin, he said, "Follow your namesake and you'll have my tentative protection until we discuss." Blade gave Niveus a meaningful look, knowing that the other hadn't lied to him, but was witholding some information, not wanting to speak in front of an audience. On the flip side, the look was one that clearly stated Niveus wasn't really trusted. The other was still honorable in some respects and had.... some family values. Also, in most cases, his sense on how to react was a little lacking, but that would be irrelevant now.

Time and travel had changed his half sibling, and in other ways, not at all. Niv nodded at Blade's words, agreeing that Petra should rest. She looked much better than when he'd found her, but it was good to be cautious. How large was this pack? The unspoken question made him realize Blade's words toward him. Of course, Blade himself didn't need anyone to keep an eye on him. He was referring to Petra... not that she needed looking after, but it was somewhat noticeable he was worried for some reason. Thinking about their apparent upcoming discussion, he realized Blade was all too aware there had been things left unsaid. It was true this would have to eventually take priority, but he'd travelled with little pause to rest.

Anger? No. He didn't know what it was that coursed through him when Echo pushed him away. Whatever it was called though he mearly took it. I'm supposed to give her what she wants right. He shrugged and smiled. "Good call" He turned away as she focused on Rawbones, he felt... what was happening. He walked over towards Akiko his blue eyes targeting onto what was his half brother, by his father? He tilted his head and looked at the brute seeing some resemblence to his own that he had seen in the water. Interesting. Family in a nother place. In other lands. But lands that were not alligned with my own. "If you had been here before my time I'd grant you permission to stay. But you weren't. How can I trust so much of family when my own family here isn't my own but my pack. You claim to have my blood, but you don't. You only have half of it. So that means half the loyalty. I've been on this earth little close to a year and you're just now deciding to come fine me? Is it a challenge, and if not. I don't care. I don't grant you acceptance. I don't feel comfortable with you in my lands. Out." He didn't smile. Didn't take a deep breath didn't faulter in anyway. His voice was a monotone level, something deeper then what was months before. Echo was right. Time to grow up. Grow up, what a strange concept to understand, but to feel. He didn't care to feel at this point either. He didn't want to. His eyes turned to Akiko and he nodded to her. "If he gives you problems, which he wont, because his sarcastic tone with you earlier calls for more emotions then anything else, kill him" he never should turn his back on someone, but he could read that wolf like a book, call it family knowledge. Who knew.

More characters were pouring into the clearing, heeding the white Beta's call. Skyfall noticed this, but his steel orbs did not linger from Rawbones' or the yearling's. "I caught some rabbit not too long ago. My hunger is sated for now, but thank you for the offering. I see that you're eager to show me around, but I really do need to rest my feet. I'm not sure if I'll be staying here yet. I am humbled for your acceptance," he replied, his tone cool and polite. "Would you have me stay for this meeting that seems to have gathered, or would you rather have me reside in a den for the time being?"

Blade watched Petra retreat, and he looked at the remaining herbs on the ground. Before moving to pick them up, he barked out, "Talk," his stance making it clear they weren't going to move.

Niveus nodded, and only hoped that Blade would think first and react later. "Someone survived. I don't know her well, but I've heard stories. No one knows, or is willing to mention who her parents are, or were. All I know is that she's stopped following her namesake long ago, and made a turn in the opposite direction. She's crazy, and found a right hand just as bad as her. She's called Themis and has a mate, Aeron."

Blade turned away from Niveus, the following silence tense. Of course. Her. He'd heard a few rumors when he'd still been out, but didn't think it'd been the same wolf. What was worse... his father being alive, or Themis. Themis who'd have no idea Blade was alive, but would throw a fit upon this discovery. He'd have to tell the pack of the possibility of a threat in the near future, especially if she knew where Niveus was and why. As for Niv... the other didn't have to know... yet. Although it seemed like things had been kept from both of them now. This probably explained why Niveus was here now and hadn't found him sooner.

He didn't say anything, and just lowered his head to pick up the remaining herbs. Nothing else needed to be said at the moment. It was difficult to remain angry at Niveus, and always had been. The wolf managed to hold onto honor and didn't allow his priorities to be stolen by the heart of the mountain. It left him somewhat naive, but there was still much knowledge in that brain, Blade had to admit. He jerked his head in the direction of Petra's den, allowing Niv to ramble about mundane things, if only so the other wouldn't be too tense when the rest of the pack came back.

Upon reaching Petra's stash, he placed the herbs just inside, not wanting to ruin her organization, not that there were many herbs left. Echo had been developing into quite the sharp wolf as of late, despite some of her slips. Perhaps he'd leave Niv with Petra when she taught Echo, just to see if anything would happen.

The sounds of Akiko alerting them came to his ears, and let out a single low, soft howl of his own of acknowledgement and movement. To Niv, he said, "That would be our beta calling. Keep on your toes. Things aren't like them, but nor is it like how they originally were." He glanced towards Petra's den, knowing it'd be just as well if she slept through this conversation.

He moved to the source of the howl to see Akiko alone. The rest must still be lingering. He reported, "Petra was caught in a stampede of elk and is recovering in her den with minor injuries. I'd have scouted to see if the elk remained in the lands, but didn't want to leave Petra unattended."

Blade's sharp eyes turned to pierce into Niv's, the wolf standing alertly, but not too tall. "Apparently I have still-living kin. I leave him to your and Damean's judgement."


Niveus saw the petite wolf as he followed Blade, taking in his warning. He stood, as if awaiting orders, but kept somewhat behind his half brother. It wasn't in timidness or fear, but in caution. Nothing in his posture showed weakness, as he wasn't capable of it. He saw the petite, white wolf, but showed no surprise. Briefly, he realized this wolf would have done well in their homeland. He couldn't tell how strong the fem was, but knew enough not to look down on her.

He introduced himself with a polite nod of his head, "Niveus. Former head of guardians and warriors, I believe is the corresponding rank to this pack." His intent was only to show that he was qualified to be brought to the alpha for consideration. In his uncertainty on how he should have proceeded, he had decided to follow the familiar customs of the further north.

Rawbones nodded to Skyfall in understanding, knowing how weary he must be after a long journey. Still, he had looked forward to showing a newcomer around, so he mumbled his disappointment under his breath. He looked up in surprise as Echo spoke to him in low tones, saying she needed to speak to him later. He nodded curtly to her, locking eyes just long enough to let her know he would surely be there to hear her out, before turning back to Skyfall. Shaking out his coat, he perked his ears as the bru asked what he should do. He would have told the male to stick around; however, it seemed that Akiko was on the move anyways. She was heading to the main dens, where some of the pack was settled. It would be a good chance for him to find a den, and still stay in the loop with what was going on in the pack. "Let's head back to the dens with Akiko," he said, nodding his head to the fae, "You can find a place to rest and keep an ear out for what's going on." He nodded one more time, then shuffled off to follow the Beta.

He had noticed the other femme rush off suddenly, her abdomen swollen with life. Akiko and Exodus seemed to congregate on the topic. Though he hadn't caught any discussion of it, he knew somone would need to check on her soon, as the father was nowhere to be seen. Could it be that suspicious character, Zai, that had fathered these whelps? Rawbones had little interest in the affairs of others, and he wasn't sure how these pups had come along at all. Good riddance if he's not around, that skulking fiend... he thought grumpily. Blinking tiredly as he moved, Rawbones sauntered at a leisurely pace, coming to the dens behind Akiko at a noticeable distance. There was no need to rush at the moment, and he hadn't the energy to hurry anyways. He seated himself comfortably, attentive enough to catch anything that would be said.



+Pain+Hate+Lies+Guilt+

Bloodeye snarled and thrashed in agony as her body went through the motions, her claws gouging the soft earth. Contractions became more intense and more frequent, until she could feel the shift within. With all her might, she heaved and brought the first pup into the world. Instinct drove her to clean and dry the whelp, allowing it to nurse as her body readied for the next. She glanced frequently to the den's entrance, as though expecting something to change. All was silent. Then a powerful wave rippled down her body as the next whelp made its way, and she gritted her teeth against the pain. It felt like so long since her last litter, she had forgotten what it was like to birth. Both at the same time, it was easier and harder this time around. She knew what to expect now that it was happening, yet it was difficult to bear with it. Also, she knew what may become of these pups. Their existence would likely be short-lived. Maybe. She wasn't so sure anymore.

Panting, she licked clean the second the whelp and let it go to her belly for nourishment. Both had mottled coats of white and gray. Both were so small and needy, squealing as they pressed into the warmth of her body. She blinked heavily, and let her eyes stay closed. Yet another wave of pain coursed through her, and she brought a third whelp into the world. The same as the others, as soon as it was clean and dry, it nuzzled into her belly, suckling for milk, and Bloodeye lay her head down. No more were to come, and the afterbirth passed easily. By then, she was exhausted. She allowed the newborns to drink as much as they needed before they all went to sleep, weary from the experience. Sighing, she wondered what fate would face them, and if things would go according to plan.

Blade didn't feel bad for the scrutiny Niveus was undergoing. He did look interested, though, when Akiko mentioning Damean refusing a... it appeared half brothers seemed to be floating around lately. Not that Blade was judging, but he wondered what caused the other to reject family. Too much of a reminder of the deceased Damean Sr.? Or... considering the only half blood to Damean he knew, perhaps Akira had too much influence on some of her spawn and it created a bad air? He was never able to imagine that alphess raising more than a select, elite trio or fewer pups... perhaps making them fight to the death for heir rights.

Back to his own kin, though, he thought for a moment, then stated, "He, like all others with rank beneath delta, was born and named to fit his role, Niveus Vigilo, commandant of the protection unit. He was trained since he was old enough to walk. While the environment had slowly driven nearly all of the pack to madness, he's kept grip on sanity. He has some... quirks as a result."


Niveus' instincts were to back up when Akiko moved closer, but remained still, remembering that she could potentially be one of his future superiors. He had never been comfortable with staring, more used to the brief glances and eyes more intent on his movements than him as a wolf. Yellow orbs were briefly hid from view as he blinked in surprise, as Blade wasn't actively trying to get him kicked out. It was clear the other was still keeping him at a distance, but that was more for personal reasons.

After his half bother finished talking, he said, "I can't imagine a sheltered life after my childhood home. I've known naught but constant war. It'd be nice not to get caught in it every single day, but I'll never give it up." Any wolf who's been in any fight could relate. It got the adrenaline going, and after getting past the first feeling of slaughtering another, it was hard to go back. It was why his brother was here and not some perfectly neutral pack. Although not pure, they didn't do much, either. After his answer, he was suddenly all too aware of how close she was to him, and tensed a little, ready to move if she were to suddenly snap at him. Respect or not, future superior or not, he wouldn't let himself get injured without defending himself.

Skyfall nodded to Rawbones' words, and chose to follow the rest of the gathering pack. He was being lead deeper into the lands, the snow melting into warm, blossoming spring as they headed to the lower climate; he noted that the tall evergreen trees, however, did not change. When they reached the pack lands, some went to investigate their dens, and others sat in a circle, attentive and waiting for news. The stocky grey wolf chose a seat within the circle, but sat a little more distance from it, as he was not a part of the pack yet, and he did not want to mean any disrespect to Akiko. The way that she had led the pack was cold and quick; Skyfall wouldn't have been surprised if her judgement was as well.

He glanced to see Niv's reaction as Akiko backed off, noting that his expression didn't change once he had space once more. Apparently the other would be able to adapt to life here without too much difficulty. Instead, Blade watched him nod respectfully in respond. Akiko turned her attention on other wolves.

Tristan and Conall's argument, though, inadvertently disrupted the beta. A silent command was sent his way before turning back to the new wolf. Silently, Blade stalked over, growling out once he was standing right in front of the pair, "Explain, one at a time. Don't leave out information." The pack had just finished their encounter with damn elk. Now a series of family issues, with the latest being the most physical.

He could tell by looking that Tristan was deteriorating with age, more obviously and quickly than Rawbones was. The leg probably wasn't doing him any favors. That didn't necessarily equate to a son almost killing his father. He was curious what got the younger so mad and wondered what had prevented him from delivering the final blow, but they hadn't seen if the elk were still around, which kept him on edge. Perhaps he'd set Niv up in a spar if Conall really needed an outlet for whatever rage he carried. The pair hadn't had any contact with the rest of the pack, so Blade wasn't aware of Conall's temperament. He dismissed both wolves as threats, but wouldn't hesitate to strike back for the kill if he were to come under attack. Orange orbs flashed to Conall, indicating for him to speak first, and a warning to not try anything, which would give time for Tristan to stand up.

Skfyall waited for the white Beta to speak with him, as she took care of more important matters first. He stared straight ahead into the thickness of the woods, the trees tall, dark, and looming above them. Even though spring was here, there was still a frost to his breath, a chill beneath his paws. It had been a long winter, one that appeared to be delaying summer. He wondered if the lands would look any different; they were, overall, pale and ashen, as if a fire had ravaged over them long, long ago. A sad, mournful feeling developed in his heart... Is this what his homelands, once flourishing and green, would come to look like, if he were to go back? No, there was no going back now. He had made it over the mountains, and he was not sure if he could make a return journey.

Form snapped to attention by default as Akiko's piercing blue eyes were laid upon him, which he regarded with cool, steely eyes. "My business is my own, but I assure you that it is no threat. I am a traveler, from over the mountains, a passerby through your packlands. I humbly request a place to stay before continuing my journey," he replied, his tongue likely sounding too formal and thick with a dialect not from around here. A snarl and a yelp erupted from behind him, but he did not flinch, for he knew without looking that he was far away enough from the commotion not to be involved. He watched as it attracted Akiko's attention, to which she delegated to another wolf. Interesting. So, this was how this pack worked. He wasn't sure what he had been expecting; perhaps something a little bloodier, a little more vulgar. He did not let his face betray his thoughts, though. "Rawbones simply wanted you to hear me out."

Rawbones gave a subtle nod approval at Akiko's decision to keep Niv amongst their ranks. There was no reason to turn him away. Besides, he had blood relations in the pack, and certainly he and Blade had unfinished business to speak of. His attention turned with Akiko's to look upon Skyfall. It was not until the conversation was interrupted and Akiko turned with a disgruntled look upon her visage that Rawbones noticed the two wolves that had been approaching. Suddenly aware of them, he got to his paws with hackles rising, scenting the air quickly. He recognized Tristan's scent, and then his son's. Still, his eyes were whirling with anger, seeing what was happening. He wanted to march over and tear the youngster a new hide, regardless of the fact that Tristan had once been his enemy. He hated to see young hauty wolves throwing their weight around. "Boy, you better fix that look on your face before I come over there and tear an eye out!" he shouted, a growl rumbling in his chest. He was sure Conall knew why his father was missing an eye. He watched as Blade was sent over to settle the outburst, snorting in content with the choice of wolves to deal with the situation. He would probably deal with it in a much more reasonable fashion than Rawbones would have.

His attention was drawn away from the scene when he heard his name, and he was glad for it when he saw Echo there to distract him. He was getting a little too fired up. Perking his ears to her, he heard her words and understood. She was not being impatient; it was simply time to get started. "Right," he said with a nod, "Sorry to have kept you waiting." She wouldn't learn much by hovering around the pack as they mingled. He strode over to Akiko, forcing himself to find the strength in his elderly limbs. He dipped his head to her. He hated to interrupt, but he felt it was urgent to get Echo started with her training. "I will tend Bloodeye's densite," he stated quickly, "Echo will be with me." He nodded his head, then whipped around and came back to Echo. "Let's head out," he said, his tone commanding, "We'll be guarding Bloodeye's whelping den, since she is alone. We can make use of our time there. Lead the way." Although a simple task to follow a scent trail, it would be good for her to exercise her senses. He would have much to teach her in order to hone her fighting skills and help her to control the beast within. She also needed to keep her body fit and her reflexes sharp. Waiting for her to catch the scent herself, he knew he had a lot of work ahead of him, and he began to doubt if he would maintain the energy to do so.

He made no noise, nor did his eyes give anything away as Blade closed in, quickly snapping the air just hair lengths in front of, Conall's muzzle, pulled back just a few inches and said, "Analyze, if you're so smart, and drop the attitude until you can back it up. Picking on deteriorating wolves just because he was able to say some words and push your buttons? Pathetic. And said wolf being your father, I see he had good reason for doing so. You're the one who needs to be knocked down. Is 'caring' for your father really the only cause that comes to your head? There are more than five drastically different ones I can think of off the top of my head, and I'm in the position of being the biased and more close minded. I don't care for him. I wouldn't even blink if he keeled over. Given the choice between the two of you, he's still more valuable. I'll leave it to a whiny, undisciplined whelp like you to figure out why... and if you actually have brains somewhere in that jumble of muscle, you'd have been able to answer your own questions."

Without moving or looking away from Conall, he barked out, "You, Tristan, should also analyze, though it's probably crossed your mind. Why is Conall like this, and how are you going to react with that knowledge? Both of you are to wait for and address Akiko when she's done with the newcomers and to remain with the pack for the time being to reestablish communications. And you, Conall, while you wait, are going to pick a wiling sparring partner. Maybe some exercise with those younger than your father will cool that attitude. You can see Echo once she's finished with Rawbones. Pick your fights carefully. As an example, it'd look good to beat an expert warrior such as Niveus, and you'd be expected to lose a spar with him. On the other hand, a wolf like me... In general it wouldn't look like much for a warrior to spar someone not as suited, but think of the embarrassment if a scrawnier wolf like me won a spar?"

He tilted his head in an adapted shrug, "But of course, you can fight someone your age. Echo and Damean are busy at this moment, but you can spar with them a bit later. I have no doubts you'd be ready for a second go." He wasn't about to let the kid off alone for the time being. Conall's attitude would only grow if left alone or to Tristan. It was understandable why he wanted the pair to live separate from the pack, but it didn't mean his son couldn't interact every so often. And now it'd felt like he'd given a whole speech. If they hadn't been so dense, he wouldn't have had to spell everything out. That wasn't even all he wanted to say, but if he condensed it all, Conall wouldn't understand a thing.

"Know this, kid. I currently don't respect you, but I, and anyone else, will give tips if you are civil and ask. Pack is stronger than ridiculous arguments, and attitude doesn't get anyone anywhere." His eyes briefly flickered to Tristan, implying the second statement was aimed to both of them. It wasn't his job to parent anyone though, so he gestured with his head towards the pack. Stupid wolves. Echo was far more disciplined and intelligent, even if she was still rough around the edges. Damean was developing, although he'd still have to be observed to make sure the stress wasn't getting to him. It'd probably be good for Damean to spar later, as well. He's been adapting well, but he also needs battle experience. Perhaps he could recruit Niveus to aid with that if Akiko couldn't. Rawbones was also an option, but probably less for actual sparring and more for advice and tips.

The elder tensed, frozen to the spot as he heard Conall's challenging retort. Rawbones shot him a caustic glare, narrowing his eyes. That better be a promise, I will be back, he thought, irate. Gritting his teeth, he forced himself to turn around and follow after Echo, knowing it was much more important to tend to her training than get in a fight. Still, he let loose a furious growl as he went, spitting out the words, "Insolent pup!" He couldn't stand such a mouthy youth. He trotted after Echo, his fiery gaze fixed on the ground as he set one paw in front of the other. He lifted his nose periodically, scenting the air to ensure they were still on course. She did well tracking down the den, although he noticed when she paused. She seemed distracted and almost confused, and he was suddenly able to forget his quarrel with the younger male. He wondered what had made her stop in her tracks so abruptly. He said nothing, giving her time to find her bearings and adjust her direction. Suddenly she was off again, as though she'd never lost the scent. Maybe she hadn't. Something had bothered her, but he couldn't tell what. Perhaps she would say something in time, or perhaps it was nothing at all.

At last they came upon the site, where the birthing scent was heaviest, mixed with a light milky fragrance. All was quiet, save for the muffled squeals of the newborns. No other wolves had been here. For a moment, Rawbones pitied the fae within the den. It was so easy for a male to have his way with a fae in heat, and when the whelps came it was just as easy to disappear. He saw Echo looking to him, and realized she was waiting for him to announce their presence. Ears folded back, and he gave an audible sigh. Even he didn't wish to approach the den. Although, he'd never been struck down by a denning fae, and he'd been around for more than a few births... however, the notion of it was still unnerving. Shrugging, he forced himself to approach the den's entrance. He was met instantly with a low growl and crimson orbs gleaming with hostility. He seated himself, not looking down into the dark tunnel. "It's Rawbones," he stated quickly, watching out of the corner of his eye for movement, "Echo and I will be guarding the area surrounding your den. Let us know if you need anything." He waited a moment, giving her time to process the information.

He jumped a little when her form suddenly appeared at the den's entrance, and she came to sit outside. Remaining still, he listened to her speak just briefly, then nodded to her. He heard the whelps inside crying out, while Bloodeye ignored them. He cocked a brow to her, but she merely glared at him, so he shrugged and turned around. He padded over to Echo. "Ready to get started?" he asked her. He wanted to get her started on something that wouldn't be too disruptive with the whelps nearby. He looked to the surrounding area, the training space they had to work with. It was rather dense, so there wouldn't be much room for them to practice anything together. Still, there were exercises she could do on her own. "I'll show you how to make use your environment when you haven't got a training partner," he said, moving over to a wide tree. It was something he hadn't done himself in a long time, but not something he'd forgotten. He positioned himself several feet in front of the tree, then leapt up - he struck first with forepaws, then turned himself at the precise moment so that he could kick off with his hinds. As he landed upon the ground again, his claws dug into the terra and he whipped around to face the tree, positioned to lunge again - however, he shook himself off and stood straight. He winced slightly as his muscles and joints protested against his sudden, sharp movements.

It was a simple exercise in agility, learning how to manoeuver one's own body to keep balance, as well as constant movement. "I want you to work on that until you never lose your footing again," he said, adding, "And you must build your strength and endurance. Travel the territory of Jabbar every day, and take your training seriously." He nodded her, indicating her to get started. Once she could control her body effortlessly, it would become easier to find a way to harness the inner demons to her advantage. She already had a greater advantage than he did, and that was her cool attitude. Rawbones had always been one to react to anything that provoked him, but Echo had a special talent when it came to questioning her emotions and the actions of others. He moved out of the way and flopped onto the ground, hoping she would keep busy for a while.



+Pain+Hate+Lies+Guilt+

Bloodeye awoke with a start as she heard pawsteps outside her den. Not knowing who was there, she emitted a low, rumbling growl. She hated that her instincts forced her to care for the sniveling balls of fur within her den. Looking out, she saw a familiar form and recognized the scent, but it was not one she was pleased to see. There was just one wolf she wanted to see right now, someone who could rid her of her problems and end this nonsensical chain of instinct. Denning, birthing, nursing, protecting... why even bother? When Rawbones spoke, she slipped out of the den, smirking when she saw him startle slightly. She sat down, blocking the tunnel's entrance, tail wrapping gingerly around her base. "I don't need anything," she rasped, her throat dry, "Perhaps just some fresh air." Now that she was out of the den, she felt compelled to stay out. She could hear the pitiful whining from within, knowing that they called to her, needing her. But why go back in to ease their worries? She knew that the longer she stayed in there, the more difficult it would be to leave again. She needed to separate herself from them.

She saw the old man looking at her questioningly, as though wondering why she ignored the pup's cries. She locked eyes with him for a moment, willing him to mind his own. At last he shrugged and stalked away, returning to Echo. Blinking, Bloodeye backed herself into the den just slightly, so that she could take in the fresh scents of the woods while her hind stayed warm and cozy. She watched as Rawbones got to work showing Echo a basic training move, and chuckled to herself. Lucky me, she thought sarcastically, I have a senior and an untrained whelp to protect me. Snorting, she turned her head away, placing it on her paws. She was growing weary of the guilt and the confusion weighing down on her. More than anything she just wanted to flee and find a new life, yet at the same time that simple notion bored her to tears. She wasn't interested in meeting new wolves in a far off place. She just wondered when the excitement of life would come her way.