Noctisardor Bypass Why does he look like his head is only there to keep the top of his neck warm?

Arbiter explained the potential problem, and Kaertok pursed his lips together in thought. He agreed that it wouldn't do for the sole leader to be den-bound with children for a month or two. This of course, meant that if Terance didn't end up leading, it would put them in a precarious situation. As capable as Kaertok felt that he was, he wasn't pushy enough to suggest that he be put in that role. For one, he himself had never led a pack. He knew the workings of it through his mother and the various wolves he had served under, but it had never been asked of him. Sure, he might step in and help as needed in keeping others off the borders or making sure things were in order, but he'd never had to do it for more than a few days.

It could, however, be an opportunity to do so if the cards fell a certain way. Kaertok didn't know if they would, or even if he would be willing to accept if the offer came to him. For now, he set the hypothetical aside, preferring to remain rooted in the present. Who knew what would happen between now and then? And there was the possibility their claim wouldn't be solid enough when the time came for Arbiter to conceive. He wondered if their desire to have children outweighed their desire of a pack for themselves, but it was too personal a question for him to ask.

Content that his questions and concerns had been addressed, the Tartok wolf continued along their route in silence, leaving the door open for any thoughts Arbiter might have, but not forcing further conversation.