Blacktail Deer Plateau breathe deep

The leader shot Pema a quiet, baffled look, and led her away from the den to give himself time to think of a response. As was typical, the male did not considered that the younger shewolf might be coming on to him, and took the compliment at face value.

"Thank you," he said quietly, his ears flickering uncertainly. It seemed like an odd thing to say, but who was he to question it? There were days he positively glowed when he thought of how happy he was with the Morningsiders - with his daughters and son, with his friends, with his family. "I appreciate you, too. You're a strength this pack would be unfortunate to lose. If we bring out the best in you, it's only because you belong with us."