Northstar Vale in bloom

for @Viskani

Black paws drummed against the rocky earth, moving back and forth, back and forth, carrying him in a pace as he contemplated whether or not to enter his Koningin's—no, his Matriarche's den. With a final huff, he'd turn towards the dens entrance, moving towards it.

But he paused once more. Stilled. Like a deer in headlights. Kraai squeezed his eyes shut for a moment, before calling from the outside: May I come in, Matriarche?

A call coming from outside, Viskani lifted her head from where she was watching Faust hop about the den. The voice belonged to their most recent member - the young boy sent by Chaudry.

And so she stood, stretching her legs out as she responded. "I haven't had much sun today, I'll come to you, petit."

Trotting out of the den into the shade of the willow, Faust chased after the Matriarche batting at her tail as it dragged along the ground. "What troubles you?"

Oh, no—nothing troubles me, Matriarche. the boy was quick to get that misconception out of the way. He cleared his throat. This was difficult. But he knew that, should he be recognised as a good member of the pack, that he should offer himself. See what he can do. Be good. Be useful.

I want to aid the pack, he begun. With my skills. Well, skill, singular. I came to you with a message from Chaudry, your son, as if she could forget her own son. And I travelled for a few days, and I was wondering if you would like me to focus on doing that sort of thing—I can be your messenger.

Kraai looked towards the woman with a glimmer of hope within his eyes. This was his purpose. This would be worthy of pride. He hoped, anyway.

What do you think?

She listened to the boy, her expression ever calm, ever gentle. Is it what you wish to do? She asked. You can be trained for another role, otherwise.

It had only been a few days since Bracken had joined as their first Magnolia. Kraai could be the second. She thought on this carefully, a plan already forming in her mind.

The two personalities were rather different, but both were charming in their own right. Yes.. she could see the potential for success.

He nodded, then. Yes, it's what I wish to do, because, that way, he'd still be able to explore, to quest(!), but at the end of the day, he could return to the vale he now called 'home'. That way I can remain loyal to you, Matriarche, but I can still see the sights. He would not hide his intentions.

Kraai searched her expression, then. Do you approve, Matriarche? A hopeful tone of voice. A need to be recognized. A wish for more than the simplicity of his life before.

Viskani offered a nod. A simple display of her approval. You will be assigned the job of a Magnolia, then. She stated. You will do regular scouting and send my messages, yes. But part of this is also diplomacy. Her tone grew stern. This was important - Kraai would need to remember.

You will need to speak respectfully to the wolves you meet. Remember that your actions reflect on me, our pack. She then paused, waiting for him to confirm his understanding. Kraai was still young, but he would need to be able to act appropriately.

Magnolia. A flower, he knew. Scouting and messages. Diplomacy, too. The change in her tone made the boys' ears stand tall, eyes watchful. He would be representing both her and the pack. He nodded. I know. Kraai confirmed.

Her pause was apparent. He spoke, then: I will be very respectful, Matriarche. You can count on me. Because he knew that even one slip up could bring consequences. And he wanted to make sure she was proud in him. That the rest of the pack was proud of him. That was all that he could possibly wish for.

When can I start? Eager, as per usual.

I must plan your route first. She stated, eyes dragging over the young boys face. She searched it for signs of doubt, something that may worry her, but it was not found.

She was satisfied. Things in Montagne de Cigue were back on track. Get yourself rested, eat well before your trip.

She turned away, entering her den without another word.

Right, of course. Why hadn't he thought of that? When she told him to eat and rest, Kraai nodded. And when she turned back towards her den, the boy was quick to call: Thank you! A genuine, boyish smile upon his face.

Still, he lingered for a few more moments, going over the interaction within his mind, before he, too, would exit. Trotting off in search of something to eat. Satisfied with his new role within the pack. Mongolia. Their newest messenger.