Blackfeather Woods You were both born to be kings

A silence fell between them, heavy and tense, as Damien seemed to consider Cicero's words. It seemed that he was on his way towards diplomacy that he could then turn inwards — talk rationally to Burke and Malice to explain their chances and choices — when Burke himself came out into the open to talk. He seemed not to understand what was amiss, and it was hard to miss the hurt in his expression and voice as he slowly came to terms with what was going on.

Then everyone started to talk again, throwing accusations at Burke. It was what Cicero had hoped to avoid in asking Damien; he had hoped to be able to talk privately to them, to offer them choices — for Malice to leave with the young ones, or for them both to if they preferred it — but now there were only more accusations. Cicero doubted it would bring peace as easily. Potema seemed to think they needed to keep the pups, but Cicero did not feel it fair. He knew a peaceable outcome wasn't possible, not one that would please all parties, but he hoped to avoid spilling blood. He would do anything to avoid seeing his family tear each other up.

"The children will stay with Malice," Cicero said, words directed to his sister, a sudden stern and definite tone to his voice, as though the decision had yet been made. He stood erect, despite his skeletal appearance, his tail rising suddenly and body language exuding authority as he realised what he needed to do. "They will be allowed to leave the pack safely. Burke will have a choice to step down or leave with her." Cicero looked at Burke, a shimmer of emotion allowed to seep through to his eyes. "This is the way things are. Discussion will not help. It is too late now." Had he been stronger — ironically, for he would have likely been had there not been a pregnant female to feed — then Cicero could have seen this coming earlier and could have tried to stop it.

But it was too late now, so all he could do was damage control.