he stands not alone

He supposed, from the other's frown, that he'd thought Akhlut was calling him old. The younger male had to chuckle, a bit at himself and a bit at Kisu, for he'd only meant to show respect and yet still had managed to offend. He'd only meant that the tawny wolf was older, not that he was ancient, but that he still had a lot more worldliness to him than Akhlut did at the age of two. Still, whatever moment of offense between either of them passed quickly, and the Alpha listened politely to Kisu's assessment of Horizon Ridge. He nodded at its conclusion.

"I think we will do well here. Our numbers are small now, but it's winter. We will grow. Do spread word of us, if you meet any who would make our pack stronger. My name is Akhlut--send any you meet to me." The Kesuk wolf's chest puffed a bit with his pride as he spoke of the pack growing in size and in formidability as spring came to the lands. "And you, why did you choose to ally yourself with me?" For he did see them as allies moreso than subordinates. Akhlut was capable of domineering others, but he preferred to let them choose their own way instead of coercing them. If they wished to break free from Horizon Ridge, then so be it--it was their free will--but they would not be welcomed back. That was the brand of justice that Akhlut's Light nature dictated--free will, but with consequences. The Light could be soft and gentle like the flickering of stars, but the Light could also be scorching and harsh like the desert sun.