Phoenix Maplewood Knife in the Ocean

Saena finally relented in her assult long enough for her to fire an acidic question at Reek's prone and bloodied form.  Before answering, he looked back to see the coyote pups had scattered out of sight into the Maplewood, and while they were safest away from Saena for the time being, Reek hoped they would stick close for the time being. Two pups wandering around alone in an unfamiliar territory was a surefire death-sentance. Reek had promised them sanctuary— and for once, he felt the need to hold true to his word.

"They're children," he shot right back, albeit from a much lower position than his hyper-dominant wife.  "I promised— I promised I'd protect them." So far, he'd made good on that promise... well, much to the extent of his bleeding flank.  "They were alone," he lied, but it was more-or-less a half truth.  They still had their mother, but once winter rolled around the pups were as good as dead. Unfortunately, there was no utility in dead pups.  "I had to do something," he continued on. "I couldn't just let them die; they're just kids."

Wincing with pain, Reek rose to his feet. He shot his mate a stone faced glare before his voice dipped into a stern whisper. "They're an investment." Reek had plans for these two... even if they weren't yet concrete.