Redhawk Caldera friends become family

He listened with a small furrow between his brows as Shrike elaborated. Not only had Fox wanted to mate with him, but she had wanted to promote him to be her Alpha male. Elwood had no problem with that; he was perfectly happy with his role as the pack's Beta, and didn't particularly aspire to take the reins himself. If Fox asked him to step up, he would, of course -- but if she chose someone else, he would take it in stride. Besides, he had a great deal of respect for Shrike and thought that he would make a great leader.

But the situation was too convoluted for Shrike to accept. Elwood could understand that; Peregrine was Shrike's family, and Fox's behavior was unexpected and perhaps a bit inappropriate. It was apparent in Shrike's expression that he was hurt and conflicted. He didn't want to leave, but he was too good of a wolf to go against the grain. He had been told to depart, and he would.

"Thank you," Elwood said quietly in response to his packmate's promise to continue to look for Lucy. He met Shrike's gaze. "I'm sorry this happened. I wish I could fix it. Please, check in with me in a couple weeks, if you can. We can meet in a neutral territory." His frown deepened. "I wish you the best, Shrike." He felt like the pack was falling apart -- Finley and Lucy were missing, Peregrine was deceased, and now Shrike would soon be gone.