It had been a few weeks since Howl had crossed paths with the pack leader of Kaistleoki known as Ira. A pack some might argue he impulsively joined. But despite that, at that moment when he offered his services, he couldn't help but feel the need to lend a helping paw and be apart of something. He had spent the last week or so exploring the area and becoming more acquainted in case his scouting skills were asked for. He had also tried to gain the courage to visit the plateau but inevitably it hadn't happened.

Ira had stated that she would travel to the East before returning to her claimed land and by now Howl assumed that she had returned, making it easier for him to now join the fold rather than persuade her second in command Evergreen, or anyone else that he might have run into, that he should be allowed here.

Upon sniffing out the border of this territory he lifted his head and called for the leaders of the pack, surely wanting to announce his arrival and greet them before stepping foot within.

His tail greeted Ira with a slight wag soon followed by a verbal greeting and response. "A pleasure to see you once again Ira." he said with a slight nod to his head. "Yes, I have. Would there be any initiations or information that would be valuable for me to know before officiation?" he asked getting straight into business. He knew a bit of their history from what Ira had told him previously but several things can change over the course of a few weeks and inner pack relations were cogs constantly in motion. For him to make an easy transition there were likely some rules, people, or duties he may need to know about prior.

A slight voice in the back of his mind through back to his and Star's conversation. Wondering if this would be a step he needed to take to seek out his desired new life.

From Ira's words, he took away that he had arrived just in time and that the pack was indeed planning on making its move soon. The structure of the pack didn't seem too unheard of to Howl besides the differences of names, presence of a counsel rather than a sole leader even though presently it had only one leader and incorporation of a structured apprentice system which piqued Howl's interest. Her explanation of the ranked system also gave him insight into his own standing, likely to be a newcomer until he proved his ability and trade within the pack.

Following her explanation, she asked about his understanding something he thought key of good listeners and speakers. "No confusion but rather a request of clarity." he explained "Is there any rule to state that one of commoner ranking should not be allowed to officially take on or coach apprentices?" he asked. Though he was new to the pack he knew that his prior experiences could likely be used to coach those seeking trades. But seeing as how Ira had not yet seen Howl's skills in action he could understand her possible hesitance with allowing him to train someone. "And additionally ask if there might be any other tasks you would like me to pursue? Areas that you feel may need to most assistance." he asked. Part of his speech felt rushed, but he wanted to be able to help the most people as soon as possible and no one would know how he could do that better than the Ira herself.

Taking on an apprentice would be something Howl would have to aspire to. In the meantime, he would simply have to offer his help and teaching here and there. He hoped it would be enough for the time being. Though he was a skilled mercenary and had experience scouting it would seem that most of the pack's needs would become domestic come the spring when new life would enter the pack.

The thought of pups was something that still caused him to tremble a bit. It wasn't as though he was scared of them or anything like that, but they were a constant reminder of what he didn't have, what he had lost. But part of him coming here was to become more than he currently was, and part of that would be to face his fears and overcome them. In time. 

"I'm afraid I have little experience in the ways of pup rearing, but it's nothing I wouldn't be willing to help with." he stated. He wanted to be honest about his experience and not simply puff smoke into Ira's face, but offering what he could, he felt, was a good start. "Perhaps in the meantime I might be able to help the mothers with... den building or things of the sort. Whatever they should request" he said with a slight chuckle, picking at straws thinking of what a pregnant female might desire, or crave.

His lack of knowledge wasn't discouraging to Ira as she tried to think of other ways he might be put to use other than the obvious territory patrol. He was willing to do anything to help, but he wanted to be upfront with his abilities. The more honest he was the better Ira would be able to put his skills to use and be more efficient with his actions. She mentioned his ability to counsel, speak with people over their nerves as well as general conversations.

It took him back to Heartha. Her deteriorating mental state during her pregnancy and how that affected her. Seeing things and hearing voices. He told himself that he was helping her, but he couldn't help but feel as though it hadn't been enough in the end. The idea of helping others out in the same way and lessening any pain they may be feeling felt like a good thing, but he knew it wouldn't be easy. "I'd be happy to help those individuals as much as I can. It might take some time to establish myself as a trustworthy individual and someone they can confide in, but it's time I'm willing to put in." he stated.