Bearclaw Valley Ladybugs will flee you, wolves run wild in you

They came, trickling in one by one. First Vesta, dutiful and prompt as always; then Arielle, who Aventus watched closely out of some mysterious interest; and finally Ashlar, bringing up the rear, hiding his thoughts well despite his reticence. Aventus looked at each in turn, and then smiled.

He didn't smile often. It was an eerie thing, a brief slip of yellowed teeth between his lips.

Ursus welcomes new life, he announced, swaying his tail to put the others at ease and release a little of his own tension. He was uncertain how to feel about the new arrivals, but Aventus knew his role in Ursus. He knew their protection was of the utmost importance. Even if they rose again him one day. Even if they walked the crumbling path Avicus had chosen. He would deal with that as it came.

We hunt now to feed their mother and fatten them, he said, peering at Ashlar now. He hadn't forgotten the chocolate wolf's demand that he fight, even if he appeared ignorant of the other's turmoil. And make an offer to the bears for their favour. We reinforce our borders, strengthen our hold on this land. Protect them, at all costs. But first, we hunt. Silver eyes darted to Vesta, then Arielle.

Who among you would like to lead the hunt?