Northstar Vale Wanna entertain me?

Maman has left, and for the first time in his life Chaudry is truly in charge. Before he only had to lead Pala - but now the entire pack is his responsibility.

A part of him hopes that Viskani will be hasty in her decision, return home sooner rather than later. It feels wrong for him to be in this position; it should be Chesley, not him. But Chesley is ill, and so surely he would understand.

The borders need tending, and he itches to go with Pala to renew their markings. Instead, he remains in the den site. He looks through the individual dens, ensuring their quality. He wishes for things to be in perfect shape upon the return of maman.

The Vale wolves made good on Chaudry’s offer and gave Seal shelter and food despite her transgression of thievery. Day by day, her strength and senses returned. Now, it was time for Seal to pay back the favor.

She roamed to hunt, to make a kill and strip its hide for a pelt… but Seal was not the strongest hunter, evidence by how she had wound up in this pickle in the first place, and so she roamed back to the densite, empty handed.

Perhaps I will search for medicinal ingredients instead, she thought.

It was then she saw a familiar face at the den site.

“Ah, hello Chaudry,” Seal called. “I never thanked you… for before,” she said, sheepish. “I wouldnae’ve made it out in the wilds much longer.”

Ears twitched as the familiar voice of Seal called out to him. Yet another yearling he had brought to the vale - between her, Kraai, and his younger brother he was starting to feel like a magnet for the mischief of awkward teenagers.

His head turned to her after a moment, his silence accompanied with watchful eyes as he listened. I only follow the laws of my maman. You are young, it would be cruel to put you out. He insisted. Viskani was always soft on young wolves. Your gratitude is appreciated, but not necessary.

You are settling well, then? He asks, an eyebrow raised.

Seal’s ears rocked back politely when Chaudry deemed her gratitude unnecessary. He had a lawful, black-and-white mien, full of candor but lacking warmth. If Seal was a circle, then the Grande Glaïeul was definitely a square.

“Yes,” Seal assured him next. “And I work tae repay my debt tae you…” she promised. “What is it the Vale needs most?” she asked aloud, wondering where her strengths aligned with Montagne de Cigue's needs.

She asked what the Vale needed, and Chaudry was able to answer with little hesitation. Hunters, healers, and midwives. He responded. An Iris too, but such a role was not up to him. His maman would need to find someone she trusted.

You plan to stay, then? If that was the case, even just until the spring, her role would need to change to be considered an official member of the pack.

It wouldn't be an issue in the least, so long as she could be useful.

Seal’s face brightened.

“Healing… midwifery… I ken these things well,” she explained. The cadence of her voice was quick and exuded excitement. Perhaps the mountain spirit had known, all along, that her skills would be needed here… it felt like kismet.

But – ah – did she plan to stay?

Her demeanor wilted a bit, as if to show her uncertainty.

She had been running from her guilt. Shouldn’t she continue to run?

Seal chewed her lip as she thought about it.

“I’ll stay,” she promised with a stout nod of her head. Who was she to deny her ancestor’s guidance?

A satisfied smile rested upon his face. Yes, she would be of use.

Good. Lavande and Souci, that it what we call these roles. He spoke, some pride in his tone - something that seemed to emerge whenever he spoke of the pack. You will have many opportunities to prove your abilities come the breeding season. The Matriarche's litter will not be the only one.

His tail thumped, contemplating for a short moment. Then you will be able to take the role of your choice.