Redhawk Caldera Rats and children follow me out of town

Elwood bit his lip, feeling worse by the second as Whip processed the information and its implications. Eljay had lied to him, though he hadn't meant to -- but Elwood didn't try to defend him. It wasn't the time or place to try to take sides; he realized that Eljay and Whip were both hurting, and while he loved his son dearly, it would be pointless to try to change Whip's train of thought.

The boy then asked another difficult question, while Lagan squeaked, seeking attention from Whip that the older pup just couldn't provide at that moment. Elwood sighed and just shook his head gravely. He didn't want to have to explain life and death to the Alphas' son -- that was their territory, and something that could be addressed at a later date. Rather than sugarcoat his words and try to make light of the situation, he gave the youth a sad smile and added, "I'm so sorry, Whip."