lasher did not expect peregrine's next inquiry; he masked the musing that arose within him by leaning forward to smooth the dark fur of the other's cheek. though he was not a father, and perhaps would not be — the decision rode upon blue willow's acceptance and fox's blessing — he sensed the turmoil within his beloved panther.
giving peregrine a lingering look, taltos let out his breath with a wry look directed at the plateau's alpha. as an individual, i am fond of her fiery demeanour and confidence. as a leader, i find her power-hungry and i sense she may have the potential to be heavy handed when the situation does not warrant such things. she is young, and wields her rank not as a wolf with experience might, but as a weapon.
murkwater eyes held peregrine's own for a moment. i do not think it is fated that fox and i pursue any liaison together, and it was my thought from the moment you announced us unto the pack that she would be less than tolerant of my relationship with you, was i female and not male. but that is merely an observation, and has no true bearing on anything.
fox's attempt at diverting from tradition was not successful, not in lasher's eyes, and he fell silent, wondering if he had offended peregrine in any way.