Whitefish River To go back to a place much simpler than this

Had Emrik been younger, or more foolhardy he might have blushed at her comment. Instead he laughed easily, "Apparently we have been." He threw a wink in for good measure, an easy smile resting on his lips. When she counted the number of litters Emrik was surprised. That's a lot. It meant one of two things, either they were a very strong pack, in an abundant territory; or Reiko hadn't really enforced breeding rights. He wasn't sure which was more likely, but it wasn't his place to comment. Instead he gave her a knowing look, "And you call us busy?" He couldn't help but laugh.

"Well Miss Reiko. I'm afraid I should head out. I should check on my mate and make sure everyone has everything they need." Emrik felt a lot lighter, his conversation with the Empress (albeit unknowingly) had made his day. "It was a pleasure to meet you. Speedy and I will have to come visit later in the year."