Wolf Moon (private rp)

Valshar grinned, smudged mud on her cheek and hugged her tighter. “So are you, love.”

Melody squealed and shoved him off her with a glare. “Valshar!”

He laughed, and several of the other wolves around them struggled to contain their own laughter.

"If things keep moving well, we should have the lair at least roughed out by tomorrow, finished by the day after.”

“I was thinking of taking the mare and going into town to ask Sani for help with some materials for the cabin.”

Valshar nodded, “Take Kynar with you, if you do.”

She gave him a look, but his stern expression told her the subject was not negotiable. “Alright, fine. I’ll go get him so we can get going then.”

***

Valshar sneezed again, dirt getting in his nose and eyes as he dug. The work was moving well, but he knew the worst of winter was still to come, and he wanted the lair at least livable before snows hit. He and a group of large males that had come down from the northern pack to help out had been hard at digging for the last three hours, and he finally called a break.

Walking out of the lair to the stream he gratefully sank into the water, dunking his head under a few times to get the dirt off. He noticed several others doing the same, and was instantly grateful he’d found a spot with easily accessible water.

Naya came over, settling on the bank of the stream with a cup of tea for him. He shifted and moved close enough to reach it but stayed in the water. “Thank you.”

“So have you told her yet?”

He eyed her, “told her what?”

“How likely it is that she’ll have more than one when she does finally have cubs, and the possibility that they may be born bundles of fur instead of the naked squalling things humans have?”

He sighed, “I’ll discuss things with her when she’s ready, until then there’s not really much point to it.” He turned enough to give her a look, “And no that doesn’t mean you need to interfere.”

She chuckled, “I wasn’t going to. I just wondered if she understood that yet. It could affect her decision.”

Valshar shook his head, “It might, but I’m not going to worry about it until she decides she’s ready anyway.”

He cast a wary eye at the sky, “Think we’ll get things done before it snows on us?”

“The lair most likely, not sure it’ll hold off long enough for you to finish the cabin or not.”

He nodded, “That’s what I was thinking. She isn’t used to being out in a real hard winter. I hope we can get things done enough so I can make sure she stays warm enough.”

After a huff, Melody went over to Kynar who had busied himself with cutting down another one of the trees. She didn't feel it was necessary to have an escort but if she didn't bring him and Valshar found out, she was sure he would be upset with her for a while.

Kynar smiled when she approached. "I see you're making a new fashion statement." He told her, noting the dirt stains on her skirts and laughed.

"Yes, Valshar was a great help with that." She replied with a giggle. "Speaking of which, I don't wish to bother you with it, but I was going to take the mare to get supplies in the city. Valshar wanted me to only go if you went as well."

He made a thoughtful noise, nodding. "It's no bother. While the chance is slim of you running into danger, it wouldn't be worth the risk. Give me a few moments to let Miriam know we're leaving and rinse myself off. We'll head out after that."

***

Melody was already mounted on her horse, sitting patiently at the clearing's edge when Kynar headed in her direction in wolf form, flanked by two wolves whose coats were darker than the others. She remembered Valshar explaining that a few of the Northern pack wolves would be staying at the Rock and stared at them, puzzled.

Seeing her gaze, Kynar shrugged. "While I did try to tell him that we would be fine, he insisted on more company."

"Really..." She replied with a huff. "If it were my choice I would have gone alone. He is such a worry wart." Melody grumbled, spurring the mare forward as they followed.

"It's not as if I don't enjoy the company, but I'm used to doing things on my own. I hope he doesn't intend for me to have an escort everywhere I go. Sometimes I like time to myself."

Kynar chuckled at her protests, “It’s just because you’re so important to him. He wants to make sure nothing happens to you.”

She sighed, “I know, it’s just frustrating at times.

She urged the mare into a trot and headed for Sani’s manor.

When they arrived, Sani greeted them at the door and hugged Melody before giving her an amused grin.

“Starting to look more like your wolf every day, my dear girl. Would you care to take time for a warm bath and a change of clothes?”

Melody blushed, having forgotten about the state of her clothes. “I would love a bath, if you don’t mind. We’ve just been so busy with the new lair and cabin building.”

Kynar grinned, “I can go see to getting the materials and having them delivered here, I’ll just leave the two to keep an eye on things.”

She frowned.

“Hey, Valshar would personally tear my ears and tail right off if I let anything happen to you on my watch. I’m rather fond of them so I’d prefer them not end up on his wall as trophies.”

She shook her head, “He wouldn’t.”

“He might start. You’ve never seen him truly angry. I have. He’s scary when he goes mad.”

***

Valshar stood in the center of what they’d cleared out for a lair so far. Pacing across it he measured and considered. It ended up having a natural partial partition where a vein of bedrock came up through the hillside. They had cleared around it effectively creating two rooms. He smiled, since they could use the back room for sleeping space, giving them more privacy. The front room would be easily big enough to have a fire pit and table for cooking and eating at, as well as space enough for several wolves to get comfortable whether in wolf or human form.

There was just a few more hours’ worth of work in shoring up places, and getting furniture in place, and the lair would be mostly finished, and they could focus on the cabin proper while still being quite comfortable even if the snows hit.

Suddenly a shrill bark drew his attention to the form of a slim she wolf dashing into the clearing. “Alpha!”

He stepped forward to meet her, and tilted his head, “What’s wrong?”

She slid to a stop and stood panting for a moment before managing, “Needed at the rock, urgent, shewolf going mad. Healer there said to come get you and Naya.”

He frowned, and Naya moved up beside him. “I’m not nearly as fast as you are lad.”

“You are if you get on my back. Come on, if it’s urgent, no time to waste arguing with me.”

Naya nodded and scrambled to his furry back and clung tight. He launched himself into a full run headed for the Rock.

There was a circle of wolves surrounding the base of the rock, their murmurs and worried cries being drowned out by loud snarling and snapping of jaws by a light brown shewolf that was pinned to the ground. Her eyes were almost blood red from rage as she caught the leg of one of her captors and managed to flip herself free.

Valshar had barely gotten into the circle in time, ripping her from another shewolf that had tried consoling her, pinning her down easily with every bit of his weight. "Kesra, calm yourself!" He snarled angrily while Naya moved to overlook the injuries that the others had received trying to calm the maddened wolf.

She managed to tear off some of the fur from his shoulder, but Valshar could barely feel it and put more pressure, almost crushing her until he heard Kesra's whimpers and loud cries of pain. He didn't move off of her when she stopped moving, or even when the color from her eyes disappeared. He stayed there as a few other shewolves approached them both, bowing their heads lightly.

"I'm sorry Alpha" One of them said quickly before the other continued, switching between each other in a rush to explain the situation. "We should have called you as soon as we found out but she lost herself almost instantly."

"She was already mourning for her mate-"

"And we tried consoling her but she refused-"

"The stress was too much for poor Kesra-"

"Her pups miscarried. We tried everything we could Alpha, really we did!"

A stern growl silenced them all, and he closed his teeth gently but firmly on Kesra’s neck and shook her sharply, and let go. He moved to stand in front of her. “Look at me.”

She raised her head meekly, trembling as she met the golden gaze of her Alpha. With a whimper she turned her head away, “I see you Alpha. Please, just kill me.”

His heart ached at the wrenching sorrow and pain in her eyes, the pain of loss, and utter despair. He understood, all too well. Valshar lowered his head to nuzzle her gently, “I am so sorry, Kesra.”

“Please, Alpha, I beg you, kill me, let me die with them.” She cried, “It hurts too much.”

He glanced past her and Naya nodded, holding a bowl with medicine for her. He shook his head, to Kesra, “You need to rest. Drink this.” Naya moved forward and offered the bowl, Kesra turned her head.

“Kesra.” His voice held the unmistakable tone of command and she looked back up at him to meet the compelling golden gaze. Unable to fight a direct order, she relented and drank the medicine. Naya’s mixture worked quickly, and Kesra’s head drooped as she fell into a deep sleep.

Naya studied Valshar, noticing the strained look in his eyes, “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine.” Came the terse reply.

She shrugged, recognizing the lie for what it was, but knowing better than to press him at the moment. “I’ll stay here. No major injuries, just some patching up and pain medicine to make, but it’ll take me a while.”

He nodded, “See she’s moved somewhere comfortable, and make sure she’s never left alone. Hopefully she’ll feel differently when she’s had some rest.”

“I will.”

***

Melody and Kynar had just returned as the circle was slowly dispersing. Kynar asked and a wolf explained what happened, and Kynar sighed deeply.

“Oh by the First Wolf, I don’t envy the lad right now. This is probably the hardest thing an Alpha ever has to face.”

Melody looked worried, “What do you mean?”

“The she’s begging for death, for him to kill her.” He paused seeing the confusion on her face, and explained, “When a wolf is too injured or sick, or in extreme cases, grief-stricken to the point of being unable to function as part of the pack, they have the right to beg for a clean death, by the Alpha’s hand. It gives them a chance to die with some dignity rather than simply suiciding.”

Her eyes widened, “Oh no. Has he ever had to…?”

Kynar’s expression darkened and he looked sad. “Yes. His own mother, who was my sister. If the female doesn’t change her mind he’ll have to, or she’ll just end up killing herself anyway.”

***

Valshar stood still, nearly shaking as he shoved his memories back into the far corners of his mind. Looking up at the sky he prayed he wouldn’t have to do it again. The pack didn’t need to lose a young female, the loss of her mate and cubs was enough of a blow.

"That's terrible...." Melody trailed off, watching Valshar silently. She could tell just by hi posture that the request bothered him terribly.

"Kynar, could you please deliver the supplies to the plot and help the northern wolves finish the lair? I think I will be tending to my husband for a while."

The older wolf nodded, giving his Alpha one last glance before trotting to where the mare was tethered.

She waited until there was no one left in earshot before approaching Valshar, wringing her hands nervously. One of his ears barely twitched, and she knew that it would be impossible for her to sneak up on him.

With a long sigh, Melody ran a hand through his fur slowly. "Pack life really is this terribly rough..."

“Yeah, sometimes it is.” His voice was flat, and his expression blank.

She recognized that look. He had looked that way when preparing to face Morlach. She rembered what he had told her. “An Alpha can’t show worry or fear. The Alpha has to be strong, for the pack.” Melody took another look at her husband. He had to be strong, for every single wolf in the pack. They were all his responsibility. The true scope of the weight of that responsibility started to fully sink into her mind.

“Valshar, how many wolves are in the pack?”

“Hm?” He turned his head and blinked, the question distracting his train of thought for a moment. “347 originally. There’s 100 that came down from the northern pack, and another 150 due in tomorrow or the next day which will put us at 597.” His expression darkened a little, “Or 596, depending on what Kesra decides.”

Her mind reeled as the thoughts tumbled over themselves. Nearly 600 wolves and he was responsible for them all. She wished she could do more to help, but all she could think of was to lean in closer and hug him tightly.

He leaned into her hug and closed his eyes for a moment. “Were you able to find everything you went to town for?” He looked at her, trying to distract himself a bit longer.

She nodded, “And a few other things I decided would be useful.” She smiled at his curious look, “Kynar went ahead and took them to the lair site.”

He nodded and turned as he caught sight of Naya emerging from the lair they’d taken Kesra to.

“How is she?”

Naya frowned, “She had a very high fever, and I can’t tell at this point if it was cause or a result of her losing her cubs. I’ve done what I can for the pain and her fever, she should sleep until morning. I’m going to head to my lair and get a nap, and from the looks of you, you should do the same.” She hugged him as well, “There isn’t anything that can be done tonight. As I said, she should sleep until morning. I have two young males and Tess watching her. Go on and get some sleep, lad. You were hard at work digging that lair all day with hardly any breaks. You need the rest too. ”

He sighed, “Alright. We’ll head back to the new lair. If…”

“If,” She continued for him, “there is any change or you’re needed for any reason I will send a runner as quick as possible.”

“Thank you, Naya.”

She smiled and headed off to her own lair. Valshar turned to Melody, and nosed her. “Come on then, you can ride me back. We did make quite a lot of progress while you were gone.”

There was a fire burning near the cabin's layout in the clearing when they arrived. The sun had already set and the air was far more chilly than expected. Only a few of the Northern Pack wolves remained, sprawled around the fire lazily and bowing their heads when Valshar approached. Melody slid off of his back and shivered lightly.

"We stayed to get some more digging done since snow is expected soon." The largest wolf explained in a neutral tone. "Managed to finish off the back room and fire pit. Kynar is over there finishing up with collecting firewood so you won't have to chop anymore trees down for a while. And the horse is wandering around here somewhere."

"Thank you so much. It's really appreciated." Melody said happily, huffing when Valshar pushed her towards the lair entrance.

"Get inside and keep warm." He told her firmly. "I will help Kynar finish."

***

By the time Valshar had dragged himself through the lair entrance, Melody already had the main room warmed by a fire, and smelling of fresh herbs that had been hung above the table to dry out. He could also smell a stew brewing, and his stomach grumbled.

He looked at the work, noting that the lair was almost finished and needed a few more finishing touches as he sat in a chair and watched Melody poke at the fire. The feeling was almost surreal...

"Is there anything you can do about Kesra?" Melody asked, grabbing a few wooden bowls and scooping the thickened stew into them. Valshar didn't hide his frown when she set a bowl in front of him.

"It's not something I wish to think about at the moment, and it's something you don't need to think about at all."

"That's not fair.I'm a part of the Pack now, aren't I? It's my problem as well." Melody countered, setting a bowl of bread she had found in a basket onto the table as well. When she sat across from him he avoided her gaze and stared at his bowl. "Love, I really hate seeing you like this. Talk to me....let me help you."

Instead of answering her, his amber eyes stayed fixed on the bowl in front of him and he picked at it slowly. "Yes you are, but you're not the Alpha. You don't need to go through this as well. it's painful enough already, Melody."

"If it's painful then why not talk to her? Make her realize that death isn't the way out? If I were in her place what would you rather I do?" Melody asked carefully, pushing her bowl aside and taking Valshar's hands into hers. "You would want me to live on and be happy, right?"

"It's not that easy."

"Well, if it's not that easy for you, then I will do it."

She had to resist from laughing when his eyes jolted to meet hers and he all but gaped. "You can't just say such things to a mourning wolf, Melody." He told her, almost offended but she cut him off with finality in her tone.

"Tomorrow morning I will go speak to her. If she still wishes for her life to end afterwards then I will be there, by your side, as you fulfill the request."

"I will not allow you to witness-" Valshar cut in, but stopped himself as Melody tightened her grip on his hands. He could see it in her eyes, almost pleading to give the situation at hands a try. Her words started to slowly sink in and he felt more mentally exhausted than anything just remembering the grief in Kesra's voice as she made the request.

And the pack couldn't afford to lose anymore wolves.

"Alright, alright." He told said after a long silence. "We will leave in the morning...."

***

"Are you sure it will be a good idea?" Naya whispered harshly to Valshar the next day, almost snarling when he had announced that Melody would be speaking to Kesra first. As much as she wanted to save the young wolf, if she lost herself Melody could be seriously injured.

"I don't know, but we have to try." He whispered back just as angrily, giving her a snort before following Melody into the lair with 3 other males following.

The sight of Kesra, laying there with her body language practically screaming depression and depicting perfectly what a wolf that had given up on life looked like.

Melody moved forward cautiously, sitting next to her.

"Kesra, hi. I'm sure you know that I'm Melody." She spoke softly, trying not to flinch her hand away when Kesra let out a warning snarl. The sound stopped, however when Valshar let out a low warning growl that practically rumbled throughout the small room.

"I just want to talk to you, is all."

Kesra whined at the Alpha’s growl and turned her head away from Melody.

“I know who you are, Ney’sara. Why are you here?”

“I just wanted to talk. I’m not going to pretend to sit here and say I know anything about what you’re feeling. I haven’t been through it. But I do know how horribly worried I was when Valshar had to fight Morlach. Just the thought of losing him terrified me.”

Melody tentatively reached out and touched the she wolf’s shoulder. Kesra flinched but held still. “What would your mate say if he saw you now?”

Kesra buried her nose under her paws, sobs shaking her body. Finally, she took a shaky breath. “He would tell me to get up, that he isn’t worth dying for. But it’s not just losing him, I’ve lost our cubs now too. I don’t know how I’m going to make it alone, it hurts so much.”

Valshar sighed and stepped closer, “You’re not alone, Kesra. You’ve the whole pack that loves you. I understand the pain of losing someone you love dearly, but I’m also proof that sometimes things work out in the long run.” He glanced toward Melody.

“How do you get over this?” Kesra raised her blood shot eyes to him.

He shook his head, “You never truly do. My first mate is still very much a part of my heart, and the memories of losing her still hurt. But I found a reason to keep going, and someone new to share my life with. The same may be waiting for you, but you can’t give up or you’ll never know.”

She sighed and her head drooped back down to the thin pillow under her. “But if I still…”

Valshar swallowed hard, and looked at Melody, then back to Kesra. “Kesra, you know as Alpha I am bound by the laws of our pack, and as such, if you truly insist on asking for the death rights I can’t refuse, no matter how much it pains me. But I am begging you to reconsider. You’re still young. This is not a decision you should be making when your grief is still so raw.”

She looked up at him, her expression harsher, “You would actually care?”

He looked at her, his expression akin to one who’d just been knifed. “Of course I would care, I do care, Kesra. You are part of my pack, part of my extended family. I don’t want to see you throw your life away.”

Finally she just sank, like a deflated balloon. “Alright. I’ll try to go on. I don’t know if I can, but I’ll try.”

He nodded, leaning closer to nuzzle her gently, “I have no power to undo what’s happened, but if there is anything I can do to help, I will do whatever I can.”

***

Once outside and far enough from anyone else, Valshar looked over at Melody. “You realize how dangerous that was? If she had snapped again, you could have been seriously hurt.”

Melody sighed, “Well, I think it was worth the risk if she’s willing to not demand to die. Hopefully in time the pain will ease up enough she can let someone new in.”

“I hope so, I have to believe it’s possible since it happened for me.”

He blinked, eyes nearly going cross as he focused on something, and then he looked up at the sky with a muttered curse. “Snow. We best get back to the lair. Cabin building is going to end up delayed if the snow gets bad.”

Without a second thought, Melody found herself clambering onto Valshar's back. Her eyes widened when she could now see the warm air when huffed. She hadn't noticed it had already gotten that cold.

The dash for the clearing seemed to take forever, and she was all but freezing by the time they arrived. More wolves than yesterday were there, hauling around materials, barking out orders in a rushed manner.

"Are the winters really that bad here?" Melody asked, watching in awe as the group already had the outer walls being fixed into place. She could hear Valshar muttering under his breath and found herself being nudged towards the lair. "You should get inside before it gets colder."

"I need to gather more berries and herbs before it snows, then." She replied, allowing herself to be nudged towards the lair entrance. "It won't take long. I'll even take one of the younger males with me." Melody added when she noticed the stern look he had given her.

The lair site was a blur of activity as Valshar and several other wolves made sure that materials were covered and secured. He sent them all off to their own homes as soon as they were done. He looked around for her.

“Melody!”

“I’m coming!” she came back into the clearing with her skirts full of herbs and berries, trailed by two young wolves each carrying bundles of more. She ducked into the lair, putting what she’d gathered in a pile, and then grabbing the bundles from the other wolves.

“Thank you.”

They both nodded, and turned to Valshar with a bow.

“Thank you both, get home now.”

They nodded and took off, and Valshar entered the lair, closing the door that he was now glad had gotten finished in time.

“Winters here aren’t nearly as harsh as the northern ones, but the storms can be pretty fierce, and you don’t have fur, so you have to be careful not to get caught out in it.”

As if to emphasize his point, he shook a cloud of snow out of his own fur. What had started as a light flurry had progressed rapidly to a strong snow fall by the time they’d finished getting things under cover.

“I see, well I don’t plan on being out in it more than I need to be, I just wanted to get some last minute berries and herbs before the snow spoiled them.” She busied herself sorting things into baskets and bowls.

He added more wood to the fire and started a pot of stew cooking. “I’m just glad we managed to get this lair mostly finished off in time.”

She smiled, “I am really amazed at how fast the work’s been going, and there’s so much progress on the cabin as well. How much longer do you think it’ll take to finish it?”

He shifted and settled down in one of the chairs by the table. “Well, if the weather breaks tomorrow we can probably finish off framing up the walls and maybe the roof as well.” He thought for a moment, “A week at most I think, depending on the weather; though it may still take a few more days to get the interior completely finished and furnished.”  

“That’s wonderful. I hope the snow won’t ruin any of the materials we just got.”

He smiled, “Had plenty of oiled hides on hand for just such an occasion, so the lumber is covered well enough, and anything else is fine without being covered.”

“Good.” Her stomach growled at the smell of the stew, and she laughed, “Didn’t realize how hungry I was until now.”

Valshar laughed, swiping a few berries off the table and popping them in his mouth. “It’ll be done soon.” He sighed and his expression changed, “Thank you for your help with Kesra.”

She reached over and took his hand, “I’m just glad it worked out.”

He closed his other hand over hers and nodded, “Me too. I don’t ever want to have to do that again.”

She swept the last of the berries into a bowl and set it aside, then moved over to hug him. “Your mother?”

He sighed and looked up at her, “Kynar told you?”

She nodded, “Don’t be mad at him.”

He shook his head, “I’m not. But yes, my mother.” He buried his face against Melody and then pulled her into his lap.

She squeaked a protest and then just hugged him again, “What was she like?”

He smiled, “She was beautiful, but not just her looks. She was warm and compassionate, and loving.”

Melody smiled at him, “Must be where you get it then.”

He chuckled, “Maybe so. I know Naya says I get my eyes from her, though hers were a little lighter, more of a bright gold.  Her fur was a soft shade of honey blond with darker brindling along her back and around her neck, and her legs and belly were white. She was quite the contrast against my father who was a dark slate grey with black trim. They were both deeply in love, but her more so. He was her whole life, her world.”

He sighed sadly and hugged Melody tighter, resting his head against her. “When my father died it was in the middle of the war. She was devastated of course, but being an alpha’s mate for so long she managed to hold herself together until it was over. She didn’t want to distract me from what had to be done to protect the pack.  It wasn’t until after the war was over and I was mostly healed after my fight with Morlach that she came to me.”

Valshar’s eyes closed and his voice faltered as he remembered, “To have known her like I had, seeing those bright gold eyes so full of love and life, to see her then tore my heart out. Her eyes were already dead, the light had gone out in them, and I could tell she hadn’t been sleeping or eating. She begged me to kill her, to let her join him and end her suffering. There was a small part of me that wanted to tell her no, because I didn’t want to lose her too. But I knew that would be selfish and unfair to her. She wasn’t living anymore, just barely existing, and I knew that if I refused her request I would only be condemning her to a slower more painful and less dignified death as she wasted away. I couldn’t bear the thought of her just going out and hunting down some wolfsbane and dying out in the wilds alone, or fading away from lack of sleep and starvation. She deserved better than that, so I had no choice but to do it.”

Melody hugged him tightly, “I’m so sorry.”

He nuzzled her and nodded, “I just pray I never have to do it again. I’d rather fight Morlach over again than do that.”

The wind whipped outside, and Melody looked at him, “How bad do you think it will get?”

“Could end up with a foot or so if it keeps at it, hard to say. At least we’ll stay nice and warm. Stew’s done, shall we?”

Melody woke with a start, nearly flailing out of the tangle of sheets when she couldn't recognize where she was. It had taken her a moment to collect herself and she blushed brightly when she felt Valshar's arms tighten around her while mumbling in his sleep.

She blushed even more when she remembered how dinner ended up with their stew forgotten and Valshar carrying her off to bed.

It was hard to tell what time it was, but judging by the sounds of birds echoing through the lair, the heavy snowfall had subsided and it was time to get up. With a smile, she turned and poked Valshar to get him awake.

***

"No."

"Oh Valshar, I'm going whether you want me to or not."

Melody had dressed herself into a warmer and hevaier dress than normal with an overcoat and boots. She giggled when Valshar in his wolf form gave her a warning look as she moved to open the door.

He wanted to get the cabin worked on today, and Melody had wanted to go horse back riding.

What he didn't approve of was that she wanted to go alone.

"Absolutely not. This isn't a negotiable topic."

"That's not fair, Valshar. I don't want to be cooped up in the lair or be babysat by an escort."

She heard him let out an annoyed snort.

"No."

"I'm going."

"You will no-"

Melody had pulled the door open, and a sudden blast of snow fell inward and landing on Valshar, cutting off any further sentence. She had to bite back a laugh as he struggled to pull himself free of the snow.

"You look dashing in that color, love."

Valshar grabbed Melody and pulled her into the pile of snow, tucking his cold, wet nose against her neck.  She squealed and shoved him off and scrambled back to her feet, giving him a scolding look.

“Stop that!”  She folded her arms across her chest, and shook her head, “Doesn’t change anything, I’m going riding, and I do not need half the pack chasing after me when they could be doing something else.”

Valshar had turned and was kicking all the snow back outside the lair and clearing a bit of a path out from the door. “You are not going alone. That’s final.”

She huffed and sighed. “Oh fine.”

Suddenly a howl echoed through the woods and Valshar froze as he listened to it. He raised his head and howled in answer.

“What is it?” she asked.

“Alarm being relayed from the south border.” He turned and spotted Kynar. “Kynar!”

The old wolf nodded, “Aye, I heard. Go!”

Valshar nodded and bolted off quickly disappearing into the trees. Kynar walked over and sat down beside Melody, tail sweeping the snowy ground lightly, “So lass, where are we off to?”

She frowned, “So you’re my official babysitter?”

He grinned, “Standing orders, and no wolf in the pack is gonna disobey them. You’re to be kept safe at all times, so no wandering around alone.”

“Is it really that dangerous?”

Kynar tilted his head, “In most cases, probably not. But you have to remember, you’re not just a member of the pack, you’re the Ney’sara and being human you’re easy to pick out in a group. So if anyone who wanted to get to him, or to harm the pack, you’d be the easiest way for them to do it.”

Melody frowned, “What do you mean?”

“Everyone knows that Valshar would give up his life without a second’s hesitation to protect you.”

Melody nodded, “I see your point. Alright, I guess I’ll just have to get used to the extra attention.”
She looked off toward where Valshar had vanished, “What was that howl about? What’s going on?”

He shrugged, “Not sure. All it said was ‘alarm, south border, alpha needed’ and it was being relayed. Relay howls are usually terse and only have the basics needed in them. Patrols don’t normally send for the Alpha unless it’s something serious. Can’ t imagine what it would be, along the south though.”

Melody cast another worried glance at Valshar’s trail in the snow. “Relay howls?”

Kynar nodded, “Valshar can’t be everywhere at once, so patrols use relay howls if he’s needed, short and simple phrases to let him know he’s needed and where, and its relayed along the patrols until he hears it and responds. It’s actually faster than sending a runner for him unless they’re close.”

***

Valshar plowed through snow drifts and muttered curses under his breath as the snow began to melt into his fur. He gave another short howl as he drew nearer to the southern border and was answered by a quick yip that told him direction, and he altered his course accordingly.

He approached the border and saw a large group of bedraggled and exhausted wolves huddling together just outside the border, and two patrol groups standing watch. The ranking wolf of the patrols strode forward and bowed his head.

“Alpha, these wolves seek sanctuary from the southern pack.”

He nodded and walked toward the group. A ragged male rose and stepped forward, bowing low with head and tail drooping in open submission.

“What brings you here?” Valshar asked, keeping his voice calm.

The other wolf glanced up at him and then quickly lowered his eyes again. “Lord Alpha, we beg sanctuary. If not for our males, at least please for our females and cubs. I fear many of the young ones may not make it much farther. We’ve traveled hard over a long way, and we’ve not been able to hunt enough as we sought to make haste.”

Valshar let his gaze drift over the gathered wolves. A few braved looking back at him but most kept their heads and eyes lowered. All were gaunt, and he could easily agree with the older wolf. Most of the cubs were in dire shape, and so were several of the females. He could smell their fear, and it puzzled him.

He turned to the two patrols, “Gather more hunters, get meat for the females and cubs.”

They nodded and rushed off to obey. Valshar turned back to the stranger. “My hunters will bring food, the females and cubs to eat first among you.”

He nodded, “Your generosity is most deeply appreciated, Lord Alpha.”

Valshar sat down, and tilted his head, “Tell me, why do you flee in such haste as to endanger young and females in such weather?”

“Our Alpha, he has gone mad. His mate bore three cubs, all females. In a fit of mad rage he slew her and the cubs and decreed that if he could not have a son, no wolf would, and that any male cub in the pack would be killed. He also decreed that any female to come in heat was his to be taken until one should bear him a son and heir. We had to flee for our lives and those of our females and cubs.”

Valshar growled, disgust curling his lips into a grimace, “I understand. Rest here.” Already the hunters were returning dragging and carrying game. “Let your females and cubs eat, then the males after. Once you’ve had a chance to rest a bit and eat to regain your strength, wolves will guide you further in. You are welcome to stay with us.”

Valshar could see the pure relief and gratitude wash over the old wolf’s expression.

“Thank you. I do however fear that the Alpha may follow us, seeking to punish those of us who disobeyed his orders. We regret to bring this burden upon you and your pack.”

Valshar shook his head, “I will deal with that if it comes. Lair space may be limited and a bit cramped, with priority given to those with cubs first but we’ll do our best to make accommodations available as quickly as possible. I assure you, I don’t leave any of my pack to freeze or starve.”

He smiled weakly, “Thank you, I know any of the males among us would gladly freeze or starve if it means our young and females live to see another day. I’m grateful to you.”

Valshar smiled, “I understand, but it won’t be necessary. I’m granting you all sanctuary, which means you are all part of this pack, and shall be protected as such. How are you called?”

“Pelan, Lord Alpha.”

“Please, no lord. I do not need such formalities. Which is your mate?”

The other wolf stiffened, eyes widening slightly. “Kinsla, the slim grey with four cubs. All four of them are male cubs and would have been killed if we’d stayed.”

Valshar noticed Pelan’s reaction and he nodded, “You’ve nothing to fear from me, Pelan. I assure you, I am quite contentedly and happily life bonded and have no interest in anyone else’s female. I only wished to know her that I might recognize her.”

Pelan relaxed and nodded with a smile, “They are our first cubs. She was so terrified that we could lose them…”

Valshar nodded and walked closer to the female who had been hungrily gulping down chunks of deer while the cubs rolled and tussled over tidbits at her feet. She raised her head, and tensed, fear flashing in her eyes.

“Easy little sister, I am no threat to you or your cubs.” His warm golden eyes met hers and she relaxed, shivering from the cold and stress.

“I greet you, Alpha.”

He raised his voice so they could all hear him. “You are now under the sanctuary of the Firethorn pack and thusly part of it. I am going to go ahead and inform the rest of my pack that we have new members, and I shall have our healers ready to see to those of you with greatest need. We’ll make what accommodations as we can for the females and cubs first, and see to more lair space when we can. My wolves will lead you once you’ve rested.”

Murmurs of relief and thanks buzzed through the group and Valshar nodded and turned back to the patrols who stood nearby.

“When they’re rested, lead them to the Rock.”

“Yes, Alpha.”

***

Kynar paced along easily beside the mare, almost enjoying the break from working on the cabin.

Melody pulled the mare to a stop when a deep howl range through the trees. She looked over at Kynar.

“That was Valshar wasn’t it?”

He nodded, “Summons, he’s calling the council and pack elders together, says its urgent. Come on, let’s go.”

He turned and headed toward the rock and Melody urged the mare into a faster trot to keep pace.

Kynar ordered another male to stay with Melody before turning to her with a smile. "I will be back. Don't wander off or Valshar will rip off my ears."

Melody wanted to roll her eyes, but stopped herself. Instead she nodded, spurring the mare closer to the outer area of the rock, the male following closely. There was a group of wolves she hadn't seen before, huddled in a group off to her left. A few of the wolves who were all but gorging themselves into a carcass stopped the instant they spotted her, their eyes filled with distrust and uncertainty. Then she noticed the pups at their feet. Some were making a ruckus, grumbling and play fighting while another few ate all they could stuff into their small mouths.

One of the pups wandered away from the group and waddled in her direction, following the mare curiously.

When she stopped, moving off of the mare's back and trying to ignore the small bundle of fur. She could practically feel the mother's eyes on her. The escort kept an eye on the gray wolf that approached to grab the cub. The little male, however, decided that wasn't going to happen and bit the edge of Melody's coat with a playful growl.

"No no, you!" Melody laughed, scooping up the cub and trying to free the edge of her skirts. He only let out a low growl and held on tighter. "Oh why you....my skirts are not edible. I'm sure the fur may have thrown you off but I assure you they aren't tasty!"

The cub’s mother froze, torn between fear for her cub in the hands of a human, and confusion in seeing this human protected by a wolf. She also smelled strongly of the Alpha’s scent which added to the confusion. Finally she just sank to the ground with a whimper.

Valshar walked over and gently nuzzled Melody and then chuckled at the cub. “I see you’ve met one of our new pack members.

She hugged his furry neck with one arm while holding the cub with the other. “Yes, think you can help? I don’t want him tearing it and he thinks it’s a game.”

He nodded and grabbed the cub by the scruff and the little male instantly went limp and let go of her skirts. The cub’s mother whined, fearing even more for the safety of her cub as she realized he had been pestering the Alpha’s mate. Valshar saw the fear and worry in her eyes as he padded over to her with the cub. He gently sat the little cub by her and touched noses with her and smiled.

“I do not harm cubs little sister, you have no need of fear here. You and your cubs are safe.”

She nervously raised her eyes to glance up at him, shocked by the gentle tone of familiarity in his voice and the way he addressed her. “I…” she struggled for the words, “I’m sorry, thank you. I’ll try to keep him out of trouble.”

She collected the errant ball of fur and hurried back to the group of new wolves. Valshar sighed as he watched her go, and then turned back to Melody.

“Why are they all so scared?” She asked, noticing the fearful glances from other wolves in the group as well.

“They have good reason to be. They are from the southern pack, and their Alpha went mad. Killed his own mate and the three female cubs she had because he wanted a son. Then said he was going to have all the male cubs in the pack killed out of jealousy, and that he would take any female in heat until he found one that gave him a son.”

Melody gasped, eyes widening. “How horrible.”

He nodded, “They fled with their females and cubs, seeking sanctuary here. The trip was so hard on them that many are very weak, since most of them were half starved even before they left. Apparently he also takes most of the food hunted, instead of hunting for himself. So he gets the best parts of all the kills and they get scraps to live on.”

She shook her head and moved closer, hugging him again. “Is there enough room for them all?”

“We’ll make room for the females and cubs first, though things will be a bit tight. I’ve got Kynar organizing groups to start digging dens, even simple ones would help so they have some place dry and warm to rest. This weather isn’t going to get any better from the looks of the clouds.”

Melody nodded, “Is there anything I can do to help?”

He considered for a moment and then nodded, “Go check with Naya, she’s in the big lair she uses for treating wolves. She’s been trying to see to those in worst shape.”

Melody smiled, “Alright, I’ll go see what I can do.”

Kynar caught him as she walked off, “Valshar, we need a hand.”

He nodded and followed the older wolf to a den site being dug. “We need your strength to break through that clay vein, or we’ll have to abandon this spot and find another.”

Valshar nodded, “We’ll be needing every space we can find, let me in there.”

He clawed at the hard clay and slowly worked through it after several minutes of furious digging. Backing out of the hole he sneezed to clear the dirt out of his nostrils and shook his fur out.
“Should be able to get through the rest. Let me know if you hit any more trouble.”

Kynar nodded and Valshar noticed Pelan standing at a respectful distance and walked over to him.

“Greetings, Alpha. Forgive me if I’m interrupting.”

“No, they just needed me to break a hard spot.”

The old wolf’s eyes widened, “I truly am amazed by your pack, and you. So much different from what we’re used to. Our Alpha would rather let the pack starve than lift a paw to help. Your wolves work so well together and you, you’re even digging?”

Valshar nodded, “I have heard that we’re a little different from most packs. I don’t believe in asking anything of any wolf that I’m not willing to do myself, and I’ll do what I can to help out. Especially when it means protecting my pack, and that includes making sure no one starves or freezes from lack of shelter or food.”

"Naya!" Melody called out through the lair's door, brushing snow off of herself while pulling off her shoulder coat. It had started to lightly snow outside by the time she had reached the door.

She spotted the older wolf tending to a pup who looked far skinnier than the one Melody had picked up not too long ago. It made Valshar's words come to mind and she frowned, almost angrily. "Is there anything you need help with?" She offered, seating herself in front of them.

The main room was filled with whimpering, starved pups and wolves who's legs were worn and injured during their weakened escape. It was infuriating that an Alpha would let his pack get into such a state, even heart wrenching considering how young the cubs were.

Naya nodded, handing her the small bit of meat she had been feeding and stood. "I need you to feed the cubs so that I can tend to the older wolves and get them on their feet. Don't feed them too much, a scrap every few minutes. If they gorge they'll get sick."

With a slow nod, she busied herself with the task.

Barely noticing the hours slip by, Melody smiled lightly when the pups had all exhausted themselves and had fallen asleep around her. "You know, Naya...do you think it would be too much for Valshar now if I had asked to start our family?"

Over the sound of movement and the groan of a tired wolf, Naya chuckled. "Things like that are planned ahead in a wolf pack, since the amount of pups to be born is unpredictable. The more cubs to be expected, the more stress your human body would be under....not to mention Valshar would expect you to stay on bedrest for most of the months you carry.

I would suggest waiting a few seasons but it is entirely up to you."

Melody looked at Naya curiously. "I would be having...cubs?" She asked in a puzzled tone, making Naya pause in her work.

"I think it's something you should discuss further with Alpha." Came the quick response. "I should also mention that you will be in heat soon, so you may need to take some time off from the pack and return to your human home. I trust my grandson to control himself but you never know..."

Naya could hear Melody sputtering over her words and almost laugh, knowing that her statement had saved her from having to explain to her as to what is going to be expected for when she decided to carry.

"I'm not used to everyone knowing such a thing that humans consider private." Melody replied bashfully, her face a bright red as she rubbed one of the cub's ears.

Valshar walked into the infirmary carrying a crying cub in his mouth. Naya looked at him and frowned.

“What is this?”  

He gently sat the cub down and chuckled, “It’s a cub.”

She swatted his shoulder, “I see that, why is he here?”

“Think he broke his leg. He managed to wiggle up where he wasn’t supposed to be and fell off. His mother’s worried but is tending four of his siblings, so I told her I’d bring him to have him looked at.”

“Five cubs? Is the poor she as starved as the rest of them?”

He nodded gravely, “Nearly so. Smallest litter I’ve noticed among them is three, and several have four and five. Over half are male cubs, which would have been killed by their Alpha if they had stayed.”

She sighed, “Such stupid, senseless waste. Alright then, I need you to hold him up again and keep him still so I can set the leg, it’ll hurt so he’s going to struggle.”

Valshar nodded and gently picked the cub up again with a thrumming low growl and the little cub hung limply in his jaws. Naya worked quickly to reset the bone and then wrap it before the pup started struggling too much. When she was done, she took the cub from Valshar and cuddled him in one arm, gently rubbing his tiny belly, tsking at how prominent his ribs were.

“He’ll stay here, and I’ll get him fed.”

Valshar nodded, and looked around the room frowning, “How bad is it?”

Naya scowled, “I’m utterly appalled that an Alpha could let his pack get into such a state.”

He nodded, “I agree there. I know I was furious enough with Tyroth for letting things go here, but at least none of the wolves were starving. This is just completely unacceptable.”

“I have a litter of three cubs that really worries me. Their mother is so starved she’s got no milk and can’t even stand them touching her much less trying to nurse. They’re very weak, and far too young to have made such a journey.”

He frowned, “Is there any hope for them?”

She nodded, “There’s always hope. We’re fortunate that we have several females who have small litters of their own and plenty of milk and they’re volunteering to help nurse the weakest ones until their mothers recover.  Some of the females are suffering from fevers, but that’s easily treated. Many cubs are foot sore with raw paw pads from walking too much, but most should recover well enough.”

Valshar nodded. “I told the little broken leg’s mother that he’d be staying here, she’ll probably come asking about him later after she has the rest of her litter settled.  Kynar and the others have done wonders in getting dens dug, so there’s shelter enough for all of them tonight, though some might be a bit cramped.”

She chuckled, “It’ll help them stay warmer though. I’m glad to hear it. If anyone needs it you can put some in my lair. I have all my healing stuff here, and nothing there I would worry about. I’ll be spending the night here tending patients anyway.”

He nuzzled her, “I’ll mention it to Kynar, thank you.”  She hugged him and smiled.

Valshar turned and walked over to Melody who was trying to stifle a yawn. “You look tired, we should get you back home. Come on.”

Naya nodded, “You’ve done a lot to help, Melody, and it’s greatly appreciated, but I agree, you should go get some rest.”

“Alright. I’ll come back tomorrow and help if I can.”  She followed Valshar out and climbed up on his back, “I don’t remember where I left the mare.”

He laughed, “It’s alright, I had one of the wolves take her back home so she wouldn’t be getting in the way.”

***

Valshar yawned and shook himself before shifting and putting wood in the firepit and getting the fire started.

“Valshar, I wanted to talk to you about something.”

He tilted his head and glanced over at her, “I’m going to guess it has something to do with why you were blushing when I walked into the infirmary, and it’s important enough that it can’t wait till morning?” He chuckled, “I also imagine she suggested you go spend a few days in town.”

Melody blushed deeply, “Is it really that obvious?”

He smiled, “To wolves, yes. To me, especially so.” He leaned back in the chair, “So what’s on your mind?”

She walked over and sat down across from him, fidgeting with her skirts. “What would you say if I told you I wanted to start our family?” She took a deep breath. “I was talking to Naya about it, but she just told me I needed to talk to you.”

Valshar chuckled, “That would make good sense, considering I’m the one that controls if it happens or not. As for your first question, are you sure you’re really ready?”

“I think I’m ready, I’m not sure. How do you mean you control if it happens?”

He thought for a moment, as though trying to find the right words. “Cubs need to be planned. Because of this, our kind sort of evolved a means of controlling when females conceive their cubs. Naturally a female has to be in heat, but the male has to be in wolf form. Otherwise, cubs don’t happen.”

She blinked and looked at him for a moment, “You have to be in wolf form?”

He nodded, “Yes. There’s no way I can sire cubs in my human form. So it pretty much ensures there’s no such thing as cubs happening by accident.”

The thought of having his wolf form looming over her instead of his human form had Melody blushing so bright she rushed her hands to her fiery cheeks; images of his furry body over hers almost making her laugh at how they would managed. Valshar had expected her reaction to be worse, and he grinned.

"We could get started tonight if you'd like~" He chimed to her coyly, making her blush enough to where even her ears were starting to turn a deep red.

Melody couldn't even string together a coherent sentence to respond and he waited patiently. it was another few minutes before she managed to get out another question. "Then I...I would really end up having little...furry cubs?"

The idea itself was foreign and almost outlandish to her. Melody understood that she was only human to them and that some things she would have to adjust to, but she didn't expect something like this.

"There is still a chance that we would end up with a human child." Was the flat response. He didn't sound too thrilled at the thought. "While I would love any child or cubs that you bare, a newborn could easily be lost to an illness which wolf cubs would be immune to. But as I said, there is only a chance as wolf blood is more dominant."

Melody's thoughts were moving quick enough to give her a slight headache. "I already feel as if I'm pushing it too far by asking so soon." She admitted, still letting the words sinking in, wringing her skirts even more and staring at the table.

"Is it selfish of me to ask, even though I only think I am ready? As well as with what is happening with the southern pack?"

Valshar chuckled and shifted into wolf form as he stood up. He walked over and nosed her belly, inhaling deeply as he tested her scent.

“Tomorrow would be better; you’ll be more fully in heat by then.” He playfully swatted her bottom with his tail as he walked past her to the bedroom.

“Valshar!” She scolded, turning around to catch the tip of his plumed tail.

He grinned, turning back to her. “It would mean you’d end up birthing early to mid summer, unless it turns out you have a human child instead of cubs.”

“What do you mean?”

“She wolves only carry cubs for five to six months depending on the size of the litter and condition of the mother. Can’t say for certain how it’ll be for you, maybe somewhere in between.”

He caught her skirts in his teeth and gently tugged her toward the bed, and then he stopped and yawned. “As for the southern pack, things will work themselves out. It’ll mean we’ll be busy for a while, till everyone’s settled in well, but nothing you really need to worry about.”

He flopped over on his side on top of the bed, and sighed. Then he looked up at her and gave her a roguish grin, “But definitely, tomorrow would be better for cub making. I’m too tired right now.”
With that, he put his head back down and closed his eyes.

She shook her head and walked over to sit down beside him. “You’re not asleep yet, I know that.”

He grinned, “Maybe we’ll go see the Record Keeper tomorrow. If anyone could help with an answer to that question it’d be her. There used to be a lot of human and wolf pairings ages ago.”

He shifted forms again and reached up to pull her down beside him and wrapped his arms around her. “Now, get some sleep.” He kissed her and nuzzled her neck as he held her.

***

Leshan paced across the bone littered ground. His madness was clear in his unfocused eyes and froth flecked muzzle. He stopped pacing long enough to glare at the two gaunt wolves who stood before him.

“Where is the rest of my pack?” He demanded, “Traitorous cowards disobeyed my orders and I want them found!”

“My Lord Alpha, we’ve gotten reports that the traitors fled to the territory of the Firethorn pack, led by a wolf named Valshar. They’ve been given sanctuary.”

“Firethorn!” Leshan nearly screamed. “Firethorn! I’ll show that wretched upstart whelp he can’t steal my females.”

Light snowfall made its way through the clearing, covering trails upon trails of footprints made by the Northern wolves. They had volunteered to help finish the cabin since they were used to harsher winters, making it easier for Valshar to take care of business with the southern wolves at the Rock. Melody had wanted to go with him to see the Record Keeper, but he wanted her to stay at the cabin and rest for the evening of 'cub-making' he had planned.

Once he had told Zyran of his plans, the cabin became top priority. It almost made Melody feel guilty as she watched several of them tire away at building while she sat near the stream next to a smaller wolf named Myron that was assigned to keep an eye on her. When she noticed his ears perk up and point towards the forest she blinked curiously.

"It sounds like your mare is nearby."

She had almost forgotten about the mare going missing. With a smile she stood, following him towards the direction he led her. "I had hoped that the scouts would have found her but it seems she is smarter than Valshar would like and led herself home!" she said jokingly.

They hadn't gotten farther than a few hundred feet into the forest when Myron froze after spotting the beast, which had been letting out a fearful neigh and stomped its feet. Melody was confused at the display until she saw blood on it haunches. "Oh my gosh, something attacked my mare!" Without a second thought she rushed forward to the frightened animal, grabbing the reigns and running a soothing hand down her neck while trying to get a closer look at the damage. The skin was torn deep, jagid cuts and gnashes running down the leg.

"Claw marks. I don't like the looks of this." Myron scoffed, staying a respectful distance away. he didn't want to get stomped by the hooves on the off-chance the mare decided he was also a threat.

"Naya left me a few bundles of herbal salve. I'm sure it would help clot some of the bleeding." Melody muttered. "I'll go get it. Could you stay here with her? I don't want her walking on it."

"Nay'sara, I don't think that is a good idea. we should leave the beast here and bring the others back."

"I will not. What if whatever attacked her comes back?"

She grabbed part of the saddle, intent on pulling it off when she heard a low and dangerous snarl behind her. "Myron that's not very nice of you." She retorted back, freezing when a malicious voice snarled back.

"Oh, that was your brainless animal that had managed to slip away from my hunters?"

Every single hair on Myron's body was standing up as he let out another warning snarl and put himself between Melody and the larger wolf as he stalked from around a tree. The look in its eyes was madness and filled with such hatred it sent chills down her spine. His mouth was dripping with something that looked absolutely vile, and his coat was ragged. A frothy-looking substance spew from his jaws when he spoke again.

"What is a human doing all the way out here? Is it your pet, Northern wolf?"

"Silence yourself." Myron snapped, baring his teeth. "Who do you think you are, approaching us with hostility! My pack is but a howl away, so you either back away and state your business or we will rip you to shreds where you stand!"

Valshar stood with Pelan and Kynar as they discussed more arrangements for the housing and provisions for the southern wolves. Suddenly the hackles along his neck rose and he turned his head, growling.

“Valshar what is it?” Kynar asked.

“It’s Melody.” Valshar said as he bolted for the cabin site. Kynar and Pelan looked at each other and followed quick behind him.

***

Myron stood his ground, bracing himself as the strange wolf lunged forward. In a split instant, his instincts told him to turn and pull Melody out of the way. The mare screamed and bolted as a massive black shadow leapt over her back catching the strange wolf in mid lunge. The strange wolf grunted as he was slammed hard to the ground by Valshar’s full weight.

Valshar’s teeth were bared as he growled deeply. His eyes had turned nearly crimson with rage as he closed in on the stranger. The smaller wolf hissed and spat insults at him, but Valshar wasn’t even listening. This… creature had threatened Melody. His body was tense to the point of quivering with absolute fury. Never again. He snarled. It will not happen again.

The other wolf charged Valshar but underestimated the big black wolf’s reach and agility. Valshar picked his front paws off the ground and twisted his body as the other wolf came within reach. He shoved him to the ground again, both front paws planted in his side. Valshar’s powerful jaws snapped shut on the back of the other wolf’s neck, and the clearing echoed with a sickening snap-pop as Valshar crushed bone and with a sharp twist of his head, snapped the wolf’s neck, nearly severing the spine completely.

The stranger went limp, his mad eyes going dim as his life ended. Pelan and Kynar arrived, and Pelan gasped. “That is Leshan, he was our Alpha.”

Valshar turned, blood still staining his muzzle. “It’s carrion.” He growled.

He caught Melody’s look of fear, and slowly the inferno of rage faded and his eyes turned gold, and then faded to amber again. He lowered his head and wiped his muzzle on the thick grass and then walked over to her, looking her over.

“Are you alright?”

She nodded, still in shock.

“Come on, back to the lair.” He looked at the others, “Fan out and make sure he was alone.”

“He attacked my mare, she’s hurt and she ran off again.” Melody managed, and then she wrapped her arms around his neck.

“Don’t worry about the horse, they’ll find her, and she’ll be taken care of. We need to get you inside, let’s go.”

Through the whole trip back to the lair, Melody had barely held back her frightened tears and muttering apologies about what had happened. Everything could have ended badly and the thought of it terrified her. Had Valshar not appeared when he did, either she or Myron would have been severely injured by the crazed Southern pack leader.

He shifted after closing the door behind him, pulling Melody into a tight hug as she let out a sob. "Just let it out, love." He soothed. "Everything is all right, now."

"I'm never going out there on my own again. From now on I'll take as many escorts with me as you want!" Valshar heard in between hiccups. "I'm sorry! I know you wanted today to be a quiet one and I've gone and ruined it. and now the mare is gone and probably bleeding and-"

With an annoyed growl he sat Melody onto the bed, planting a kiss on her forehead. "Forget about the annoying animal and don't apologize. No one would have known that the mare would run here for shelter, not knowing it would led that diseased mongrel to our home."

It had taken several long minutes for her to finally quiet herself to sniffles, burying her face into his shirt. "At least you don't have to worry about the other Alpha now, right Valshar?"

Valshar held her tightly, kissing her cheek softly, “No, I don’t have to worry about him anymore.”

He brushed her hair back from her face and looked at her, “I’m just glad you weren’t hurt. The thought of anything happening to you terrified me.”

“You showed up just in the nick of time. But weren’t you at the Rock? How did you know?”

He smiled, “We are bonded, remember? I felt your fear.”

His eyes went distant, and she saw a sorrow there she hadn’t seen in quite a while. He walked over and sat down by the fire, and she moved over to put her hand on his shoulder.

“Are you alright?”

He sighed, “I..I will be. It’s just…”

“It reminded you of Alora.”

He nodded, swallowing hard. “It brought it all back.”

Melody gently ran her fingers through is hair and he leaned his head into her touch. “Something I never mentioned before, mostly because talking about it made me remember it too sharply, but today brought it all rushing back anyway. Alora and I had the same sort of bond. I felt her fear, the pure terror when they attacked her, I felt her pain. I felt her die. But I was too far away to reach her in time. I never expected her to be in any danger, in our home, in the pack lands. I never would have expected it to be my own brother.”

He was shaking as he spoke, and she just held him closer, leaning in to rest her chin on his shoulder as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

“I’m so sorry, Valshar. I promise I won’t fuss about escorts ever again. I understand you’re just trying to protect me, and I promise I will let you.”

He turned his head and kissed her, “I know you don’t like being constantly under watch, but I just couldn’t bear going through that again. I can’t even think of losing you, so forgive me my paranoia.”

She smiled and kissed him back, “I forgive you, and I love you.”

He leaned against her, “I love you too.”

“I should probably get back, we still had quite a bit that we needed to get sorted and I know they’ll need me.”

She nodded, “I’ll stay right here. Unless they find my mare, then I’ll go out far enough to tend to her injuries, but I’ll make sure the wolves know where I am, so they can keep an eye on me.”

“Thank you.”

He stood up and hugged her close and gave her a long, lingering kiss and then a mischievous wink as he stepped back. “I’ll be back later. Let me know if you still think you’re ready.”

"I'll tell you over dinner, if you are back by then." Melody assured him with a smile and made no move to follow him as he left the bedroom and closed the door behind him.

She let out a long sigh and sprawled out over the bed, intent on taking a nap to sleep off the shaking in her hands.

***

Valshar let out a tired huff as he looked over what had been caught during a hunt. The overnight storms made it harder to track game, and less animals could be found braving the freezing weather. If his pack didn't want to go hungry with the growing numbers something would have to be done.

A long howl caught his attention, and Kynar perked up his ears curiously as a group of scouts approached, one of them carrying a weakened and deathly skinny wolf with shaggy brown fur.

"Alpha." One of them greeted, panting loudly from the run. "There were 2 wolves remaining that had followed the southern pack alpha into our lands. The other one was too weak to make the journey here. We left a wolf to stay with him but...not too soon after we left, he passed away."

Valshar regarded the weak wolf and nodded, “Take him to Naya, but have someone stay to watch him. He may be harmless right now in his condition but that may change if he recovers. Until we know more about his intentions and loyalties I don’t want him left unguarded.”

“Yes, Alpha.”

He watched them go and then turned his attention back to another group coming in from the east side of the Rock. He nodded to them, another group of hunters, and they seemed to have better luck than the other group. Still, he looked at the pile of food being divided and distributed. He had to find other options.

He had already told hunters to spread out more so they didn’t over hunt the areas closest to the rock, and others were sent out with nets and baskets to catch some fish from the rivers. Many adolescent wolves were being put to work as helpers going in teams with adults to gather any berries, nuts, edible roots or mushrooms that could be found.

In a very short time the numbers of his pack had swollen to nearly 700 wolves. He knew that in general the territory could easily support even more, but right now they were at a disadvantage. There was a large number of wolves who could not hunt, and had to be provided for- the females who were either pregnant or had young cubs to care for, old wolves, and most of the southern wolves who were still recovering from being starved for so long.

Pelan came up to him, bowing, before meeting his gaze. “Alpha?”

“Yes, Pelan?”

“I’ve been talking to my brothers, the males of my group who are not too weak. We may still not be strong enough to take down large game, but we’ve learned skills that could be useful, how to catch small game, squirrels and rabbits and even some birds. You’ve gone out of your way to provide for us, and we want to do what we can to help out, at least carry some of our own weight. We know the burden we’ve placed on you and your resources.”

Valshar smiled and nodded, “Any help would be greatly appreciated, Pelan.”

The other wolf brightened, pleased that his suggestion hadn’t been dismissed. “I’ll gather my brothers then and get to it.”

“You could take some of the adolescent males with you, teach them, and it will give you more hands for the work.”

Pelan nodded, “And the more working, the better the results. I’ll do that.”

Valshar headed over to the pile of game and nodded to Kynar who had been put in charge of overseeing the distribution. He trusted most of his wolves not to be greedy when they knew there were many in need, but it never hurt to have someone keeping an eye on things.

As he approached a female who had started to pick up a haunch of deer stopped and backed up, dropping low in submission. Valshar shook his head.

“No, go ahead, it’s yours.”

She blinked, “Alpha does not eat?”

He smiled, “I am not hungry, little sister.”

She relaxed and smiled shyly at the term of familiarity. “Thank you.”

He nodded, “There are many who are in far greater need of the meat than I am, and I do not require others to do my hunting for me.”

When the female had moved off out of earshot and no others were immediately nearby, he looked over at Kynar. “So how are things?”

“I’ve had a group of our younger wolves running supply errands, carrying portions to those who can’t come get it themselves, as well as a large supply for Naya at the infirmary. We’ve enough food on hand for now, but the weather is going to get worse and already the game near the rock is damned hard to find.”

Valshar nodded, “I’ve already told the hunting groups to try spreading out, going further away from the rock for a while. I know this territory can easily support our numbers, but with so many unable to hunt for themselves it doubles the burden on those who can hunt.”

“Yeah, and if it goes on for too long our hunters are going to be worn out long before the territory runs out of game.”

“Exactly. Which brings me to my idea.”

Kynar grinned, “You having an idea? You didn’t hurt yourself did you?”

Valshar snorted, “Not too bad, it was a simple idea.”

“What is it?”

“This time of year the humans have an abundance of livestock…”

“Valshar…”

He shook his head, “No I don’t mean to steal it. That would only bring more trouble. But Sani has the means, and I really don’t think she would mind helping out with the cost of maybe a dozen cattle. The size of just one is nearly twice if not three times the size of a good deer and could bolster our supplies considerably. We could make a small pen for them and get enough feed to keep them, only killing one as it’s needed. It would also give our hunters a chance to rest without feeling pushed to keep hunting.”

Kynar nodded, “That’s doable, a pen wouldn’t take much work to put up, and maybe even some chickens. You could keep a decent number near your cabin, and that’d be some extra meat or eggs.”

Valshar nodded, “I can’t leave to go ask her about it though.”

Kynar tilted his head, “Want me to go?”

“No, you’re needed here as well.”

The old wolf nodded, “Could ask Miriam. She’s fast enough when she wants to be, and she knows where it’s at.”

Valshar grinned, “Is that so? Mean she actually made you work to claim her?”

“Hush you, yes, she ran me quite a fine race she did.”

Valshar chuckled, “Alright, I’ll go ask her, and then I think I’m going home to get some rest.”

“Somehow I don’t think you have any intentions at all of resting, lad.”

Valshar just grinned as he padded off to find Miriam.