Surviving the Aftermath [Chalos]

[Dakota Spirit]

Bracing against the water's pull, Dakota stood in the river's current and allowed the cool waves to wash his body clean. It had become a custom of his to visit these shores, both in an effort to clear his mind and to renew his spirit. For the place held many fond memories and it was one of the few areas that the male could feel truly at peace. So it was that now, only days after his return from Sarnes, that the wolf found himself seeking solitude in the familiar waters. With the last bits of dirt being swept from his skin, Dak began to take slow steps back toward the river's rocky bank. The sun was beginning to set and he knew from experience that the waters would soon drop to temperatures even beyond his tolerance.

Giving himself a hearty shake, Dak did his best to clear the water from his thick pelt before moving off into the trees. Yet even with the dim lighting and recent bath, it would be obvious to anyone familiar with the male that his appearance was suffering in recent days. Always someone with pride to spare, Dakota's normal appearance was mark with an authoritative stance, head and tail always held high. In turn, the wolf's stern face always seemed to be calculating, absorbing all the details of what was happening around him. For now though, a temporary cloud have overshadowed this polished demeanor and replaced it with something far less sure. His shoulders seemed to have fallen slightly, as if finally caving under the weight of all he carried. His gaze moved slower, exchanging it's normal quick flicking movement for a far more lethargic and detached roving. Even his smile had suffered, stretching tiredly across his face on the rare occasion that it was employed. The wolf was grieving, and it was for this reason that he seemed in a rut, that he'd been keeping to himself.

Still, it was not as if Dak didn't recognize the good in his life. With each passing night, the Drappa's stomach swelled with the growth of his unborn pups. And though he always made and effort to be better around her, Dak suspected that the faithful Mist was well aware that he was not over what had happened in the swamplands. But that she understood too. That she recognized his need to mourn what he'd lost and trusted that he would make it back to himself in the end. The wolf was grateful for this trust and understanding for it was not something that he found easy in life. Besides, he knew she was right, that in time he would regain composure. It would become imperative to do so as the growing need to be there for his mate and his family overpowered his sadness. It was then Dak knew he would truly be able to put the turmoils of his friend behind him, for necessity if nothing else. And he would be complete again, confident in his pack and abilities, ready to give them whatever they needed. It was only now, with the wounds so new, that Dak would allow himself a brief respite from being 'strong'.

Lost in his thoughts, the wolf hadn't been paying particular attention to where his feet were taking him. Yet he was not surprised to find himself at Deor's border, staring out in the direction he had so recently returned from. Though he could not see the swamps from here, Dak felt his eyes straining to see as far as they could. He squinted briefly in the bright horizon before finally closing his eyes completely and turning away. It wouldn't do him any good to continue to dwell on what could no longer be fixed and like it or not, Dak was beginning to accept that. Giving only the slightest sigh, Dakota forced his mind to clear and slowly started the trip back to the center of Deor's lands and to the dens that waited.

[Chalos Autumn]

Wise eyes, far older than the body's age, stared quietly out over the wooded terrain that was Deor. They were here for a reason, all of them, and one day they would all know why; one day, all questions would be answered, all would be at peace, and each and every one of the honourable Deorian wolves would find their places beside Tor and Fenris. A small breeze caught the rust-and-ebony pelt, regardless of its heaviness, and lightly cooled the heated skin beneath and its owner emit a soft sigh, emerald sights closing to enjoy the sensation. The enormous Dragga was growing more and more ponderous, often spending entire days and nights tucked away in some remote corner of the packland and questioning the skies, a most prophetic behaviour. His very face seemed more mature and knowledgeable than ever - indeed, he had found out the solution to many secrets and even by his very eyes looked to be a friend when one had none. But at last, Chalos knew he had to return to his pack at some point, deciding this day to be his 'now-or-never.' And so, at last, the behemoth began to descend the tree-laden slope where he'd settled as if an angel to earth, a far different varg than the one who had taken Deor from Thunder so very long ago.

Ears twitched as the sound of trodding paws found him - he knew none of his scouts actually did any scouting, so who would possibly be wandering so far from the dens? Dak's scent hit him and the quiet alpha altered his course until he was next to the onyx beta. Chalos simply walked next to the other for a while, neither speaking nor glancing, his tail perked just a tad higher than the lower-ranked male. It was a wonder that he didn't lumber; instead, he strode onward in a most magnificent, refined fashion, shortening his stride for the troubled lupine beside him. Though the two hardly knew each other, the larger nevertheless considered the smaller a friend, even felt he was able to trust him to some extent.

At last, the silence was broken as a small whoof of a sigh made its way from the gargantuan's bear-shaped and bent-bridged maw. His deep voice followed, gentle and smooth as ever, "A troubled mind is a shortened life.. and a locked emotion is a pending eruption." Dakota would be the first he'd spoken to in weeks, yet even these few words held comfort. He was beckoning the obsidian Beta to speak, but just a single look into those old-soul eyes of his gave one the impression that, whatever it was Dakota had to say, he already knew.

[Dakota Spirit]

Mindful of the sounds of movement around him, Dak had kept his ears perked in an effort to detect anything close by. He knew that other pack members were likely about, coming in for the night or moving along their other various duties. Likewise he knew they were not apt to approach him in their travels. It wasn't that the male went out of his way to be unfriendly with those of his new family, rather that they undoubtedly understood his need for solitude. Or so he hoped, for even when giving his best effort Dakota couldn't muster up good conversation these days. He simply wanted to be alone with the thoughts that swirled in his mind, at least until the time that they had become something more of a memory. Until his will over such flashbacks had grown to the point that he was able to push them to the backs of his mind, to lock them away in the darkness. A sigh passed through his dark lips as the wolf lifted his head slightly, deciding that now was as good a time as any the pull himself up out of any residual funk. The dens were nearing and should Mist be in the vicinity he did not wish to be melancholy around her, preferring instead to make each of their moments together as joyful as possible. Despite his cloudy mood, Deor's Beta couldn't help but feel his body warm at the thought of his mate. It was so easy to be unguarded around her, to relax his rigid composure and just be himself. Not many had that effect on the male and so he savored it, leaving most of the heavy thinking for times when she was not around.

Casting a quick glance in either direction, Dakota was surprised to see a figure slip into step beside him. The wolf was larger then himself, with a muscled body covered in dark ebony and crimson rust. The sight was not a new one, being quite familiar with the Dragga, Dak was no longer shocked at Chalos's monumental size. Still, the smaller wolf did a double take, unsure of what was now expected from him. He hadn't seen the Alpha for what seemed like suns now and briefly Dak wondered if he too had been keep to himself. If much like himself, Chalos had had thoughts of his own to deal with. The older wolf walked silently beside for him for a time and Dak watched as his larger paws shortened their strides, dragga adjusting to the pace of his subject. Proper edict dictated that Dakota greet his leader, be it with a bow or some other acknowledgment. Yet he too stayed quite, watching the large male out of the corner of his eye with growing interest. This was not a normal meeting, that much seemed certain. Formalities were not so much an issue now and for a moment the male felt a touch of doubt attempt to creep into his heart. He knew well enough how to conduct himself when it came to politeness and respectful conversation, but casual encounters were another matter entirely. It had long been a struggle for the male to lapse out of his more serious demeanor for a long enough period to allow for any kind of true friendship building, a fact only exacerbated by his companion's standing. Still...a strange calmness swept over him as the two continued to walk. Chalos had that way about him. Like a gentle guardian he seemed to watch over his pack, eyes always on their welfare, even if his presence wasn't always known. When he finally spoke, Dak turned his head slightly, taking in the Alpha's words with a thoughtful look on his face. The sentiments were true of course and the wolf knew he was doing himself a disservice by keeping such troubles to himself, but sharing was not always a skill he employed. He was private and silent and altogether unfamiliar with the act of relying on someone else for comfort.

Halting his slow journey across the the pack lands, Dak stood beside Chalos, his face turned away for a moment. "You know...", he whispered, bright eyes searching the skyline. "They say that the truly wise can read the thoughts of others. That they can look into your eyes and see your feelings as clear as if you were to speak them aloud." He paused, lifting his head a bit higher as another bit of breeze passed by to cool his skin. "I'm not sure how much I believe in all that.", the male at last continued. "But you, Dragga, seem to show such skills often enough to suggest there is at least some truth in the old belief." Finally turning to face the bear-like wolf, Dak inclined his head slightly, offering Chalos the respect his position called for. "Welcome home, my Lord."

Dakota stood silent for then, still unsure of what he was willing to give in this moment. But as he continued to watch Chalos, the male felt his sense of ease continue to grow. There was a sense of understanding and protection glinting in the dragga's eyes and though he wasn't quite sure why, Dak couldn't help but be drawn toward it, compelled to force that understanding in his direction. A wispy smile crossed his face, offering only the slightest glint of his fangs as it crept the full length of his muzzle. "I guess I can't escape this.", he said, voice returning to it's normally smooth deep notes. "And perhaps you have a right to know what went on. Maybe I even want to share it...more then I realize." Reclining back upon his haunches, Dak tilted his head thoughtfully, regarding the bigger wolf with a look of calm resolution. "Chalos...", he stared, rolling the Alpha's name softly from his tongue. "Do you know where I've been these last few suns?"

[Hope this works, Chalos - let me know if anything needs changing!]

[Chalos Autumn]

He enjoyed their wordless stroll, a small, relaxed smile playing his maw. When he saw Dak's repeated glancing in the corner of his eye, he merely continued to stare forward, holding back a chuckle - the black wolf seemed terribly confused by his Dragga's unexpected appearance. In truth, it had been far too long since his last contact with wolfkind and he felt unsure whether his newly-afflicted social strangeness would be accepted. He had always been rather solitary - especially for an alpha - but he seemed to be making an effort to pull out of his distant behaviour. Upon hearing Dakota's voice, however, his smile worked itself wider, mind eased. When the Beta finished his first words, a kind response was given. "A varg need only learn to observe, to feel, and to interpret. In truth, all one truly needs to do is shut his mouth and instead use his God-given senses. None can truly read the thoughts of any, but it is possible to come close." The enormous male at last turned that brilliant gaze to the other, giving him a wink as if to say, 'You could too, if you tried,' and a curt nod in reply to Dakota's respect. "Aye, and welcome home to you as well, my young friend."

Quieting again, Chalos searched his thoughts, wondering to himself where it was everyone was going nowadays. Surely, this pack held more wanderers than any in Transylvania. The Deorian leader knew the black-furred subordinate had impregnated the Alpha Mist a good while back and he felt the mood of the packlands growing more anxious as her time to birth drew nearer. But why ever would Dakota choose to travel out of territory and risk attack? It was a possibility that the onyx varg would never have made it home, that he'd never have gotten the chance to see his pups; truly, he was lucky to have returned from his journey safely. The snow-rumped Dragga allowed another sigh to flow from his throat - he vowed to ban his Beta from further travel out of Deor's borders until Mist had birthed, a good plan if ever there was one.

He continued onwards, walking a slight ways away from Dakota and stopping ahead of him, giving a quick look around before he settled himself into a sitting position facing the other. At last, the smaller male's words continued and the Dragga's large ears swiveled to take them in, that soft, understanding little grin still spread across his large muzzle. His curiosity piqued at what was said, but the behemoth simply nodded. Chalos remained silent for a good while longer, watching Dak's face with deep, seeking eyes - he could see that he appeared to be reluctant to speak, almost forcing the words to come from his maw. But what was spoken showed that he still yearned to have a listener.

"I admit that I don't know where anyone's been the past few months!" He chuckled, then grew serious, unblinking sights studying Dak, " You do seem troubled, but if I may say so, you seem troubled in a way which says that, perhaps, you've recently lost something - or someone, for that matter - very close to you. In contrast to your previous statement, you don't at all have to say a word if you don't wish it. The fact that I am your Dragga is no matter of importance unless you endanger Deor; if you are not ready to speak, then I request that you don't. Indeed, I do have a right to know anything and everything, but unless you have the Balkar on your tail, I am not worried if you would prefer to keep to yourself for now." His speech finished and the strangely-marked alpha watched the other with interest, waiting to see whether Dakota would choose to speak later or presently. Before he could respond, however, the bear-sized Deorian added, "Also, no matter what sort of business it is you have beyond this pack's territory, I must demand that you stay put with your mate until your children have lived their first week. I made the mistake of disappearing once and I cannot let you do the same."

He'd have lowered his head at the resurfacing memories if he were not so emotionally strong, but the knowledge that his daughter may have left Deor because of his neglect never failed to leave him feeling sick to his stomach. "Promise me, and then you may speak if you wish."

[Dakota Spirit]

[This got kinda 'out of hand' long...but I couldn't figure out how to break it up into two posts. Most is filler/rambling though so feel free to just skim through that lol]

Tipping back upon his haunches, Dak favored the older male with a look of slight curiosity. The wolf's interest had little to do with his leader's position in that moment, centering instead on the situation they found themselves in. For known to few, Dakota had grown up most of his life without the luxury of a family. No mother, no father, and so by extension no teacher to pass down the lessons of life. He was not familiar with being the 'student' to someone else, with relying on another's experience rather then his own. And yet, the wolf knew full well that in this current pairing he was sorely outmatched. Chalos was older and much more versed in what life demanded of you. He'd stepped in to take Deor as his own and in doing so, opened up not only himself but his family from threats from any that opposed his reign. Knowing of such actions in the Dragga's past only served to increase the level of respect that already lived in Dak's mind, making it all the more easy for the wolf to listen attentively to his words. Unfamiliar roles or not, Dak fell easily into the position of student, his green eyes shining softly with interest.

"Ah...", he mused, once Chalos had stopped for breath. "Though one might say its those very qualities that might or might not qualify someone as wise to begin with. I've found that most of the 'mystical' traits that are said to exist are often nothing more then products of common sense and experience. They only seem truly mystical because so few bother to practice common sense these days." Curving a half smile, Dak flashed his own typical wink and took advantage of the remaining silence to better examine the meaning behind Chalos's words. It seemed that the dark skinned Beta got himself into enough trouble in pursuit of easing the problems of others. He wondered if furthering that ability to read his peers would ever prove a good choice, one that would not bring with it more turmoil then serenity. For it weighed on him, the problems of others. And once he knew of such strifes, it could not be forgotten. He often found himself with no choice but to offer aid, seeing it as the only means of gaining solace. Because once they too were safe and resolved, Dak knew he would feel the same. That he would be content knowing that those close to him now carried one less burden on their backs. Tilting his head ever so slightly in thought, the wolf reasoned that most Alphas likely felt the same. The difference was that they looked over an entire pack rather then those few considered 'close' and that their protection was expected. They did not get to pick and choose when to offer their aid, much as Dak sometimes could. And still, he reasoned further that the impending birth of his cubs would make things even more complicated in that respect. His attention would need to be reserved for them alone, for concern of their welfare and safety. Dak knew he would have to find a way to turn down the troubles of others, to excuse them for matters beyond his control. Pushing the thought to it's final point, the male concluded that perhaps it was that skill that he truly needed to learn. That ability to realize one's limitations and accept them rather then taking on everything as some kind of unavoidable load to bear. And by doing so, any potential he had for reading others would seem more like a blessing and less like a curse damning him to unhappiness. It would become a skill, employed much in the manner that Chalos seemed to use it now.

Startled from his thoughts by the Dragga's deep voice, Dak turned his ears to once more listen for words from his leader. The reassurance Chalos offered him was nothing less then the male had expected. Despite the somewhat harsh exterior that he sometimes had to exhibit, Dakota knew the older wolf to be kind at the core of his being. Likewise, he knew that any words said now could be said in confidence. That in this situation at least, the male need not spend so much time trying to decide if the one he confided in could truly be trusted. However, before Dak really had a chance to speak on the matters of his trip and the resulting circumstances, it seemed another subject entirely had sparked Chalos's attention. Swallowing back the words in his throat, Dak shifted slightly, pulling the weight off of his old leg injury. The leg, long ago snapped in a rusting trap, had never healed quite right. And though the injury often when unnoticed these days, there were times such as now, when it required a bit of tender care. When Chalos's new topic became clear, the younger wolf couldn't help but let a small grin twitch at the corners of his mouth. He thought it curious for a moment, that even in his long absence the Dragga still knew of Deor's impending birth. And yet, these things were often cause for great celebration, word getting out quicker then wildfire. It made sense that the Alpha would know of such important matters, even if he hadn't had any recent contact with Mist or himself.

"You needn't worry.", he said once Chalos had finished speaking, shaking his head slightly as if to physically dispel the mann's concerns. "When I left on my trip I did not know of Mist's condition. She was not so far along as to draw notice to my eye...I think even she had yet to discover the growing life within her." Swallowing visibly, the male paused, his eyes reflecting memories that only he was privy too. It hadn't been easy for him, coming back to the news of his unborn cubs. Realizing that they too bad been risked in his actions. Realizing what he could have missed out on. Pulling his back up straighter, Dak pushed the regrets back and turned his mind to the present, face growing serious in the process. "Rest assured...", he said. "I would not have left her, had I known. And I have no intention of leaving again anytime soon." Catching Chalos's last words, Dak's voice softened. He did not yet know what it was like to loose a child, but the concept of absent family was something he could easily relate to. "I promise." the male said simply in a voice that suggested this time, he was the one that had seen beyond his years.

With that matter settled, Dak shifted gears again, preparing himself for whatever amount of re-telling he chose to give. "As for my recent trip...", the male said, locking his bright gaze with the Alpha's own emerald orbs. "I appreciate your sensitivity when it comes to my feelings on the matter...but I suspect that this is not a situation that would change regardless of how much time I allowed to pass before sharing. You are right to suspect lose is at the root of it...as it seems to be in most heartache." In that moment the smaller wolf decided that he would keep to the main points, leaving the details for another time. They didn't matter much in the long run anyway, not now, after the fact. "I lost my brother.", Dak said quietly, careful to keep both his voice and his gaze steady. Likewise he did not bother explaining that the grey wolf was kin by title only. Like the circumstances surrounding their fissured friendship, such specifics seemed of diminishing importance. "He resides now in Sarnes, and in the last few days I have been there and back...one final attempt to repair whatever connection we had. It was unsuccessful to say the least...and my leaving was marked both by his harsh words and those of the Drappa, who appeared toward the end of our confrontation." Turning his head to the right, Dak exposed the three vertical lines of healing flesh that snaked across one side of his face, the only visible mark suggesting it was more then just harsh words that were exchanged in the swamps. "Anyway...", he said. "That's the general gist. Neither Dane nor the female know from where I came and neither are likely to exert much energy in finding out...so the pack is safe. Sighing deeply, Dakota finally released his eyes from the Dragga's face to once more scan the skyline. "I'm just processing the grief for now. When the cubs arrive I've vowed to myself to push this matter from my mind, I don't want it effecting my time with them. For now though, I'm letting things run their course...waiting out the 'bad', you might say." Then, flashing the same grin as before Dak allowed his features to show a bit of the appreciation that echoed in his words. "Of course...", he said. "Having the occasional ear willing to listen can only help to speed that process along."

[Chalos Autumn]

[Woaaah, I rambled really badly. Sorry mate.]

The patient alpha sat quietly whenever his Beta spoke, attentive and gentle - it was obvious to see that he was actively listening. It was something that made him so easy to talk to, his skill for grasping information and storing it for possible use later, remembering words exchanged and expressions passed. Though the fact that he grew up with the deranged creature Nocturnia made it a wonder that his social competency could be so well-maintained.

A soft chuckle emit as the black male gave his reply on the subject of wisdom, smiling as if amused before responding, "In an ever-changing world, many of us have a tendency to look far past the obvious. This is no longer a land of prophecy and lore, Dakota. War and bloodshed has come to rule atop a most terrible throne, overshadowing the earth. Life is shorter than ever and the wise have been forced into hiding, for as those who reside here grow more desperate, they are less willing to open their eyes and listen." He shook his head, the great mane of hackles along his back shining. "Hah.. It's a world where my mindless brother's ramblings make perfect sense and I am nothing more than an old fool.. A world I had always hoped I'd never have to see." Little to nothing had been revealed about the Dragga's family - his only daughter had left Deor, his only mate murdered by his brother, and his only remaining sibling plagued Transylvania appearing as if a wolven beast of legend - and the mere mention of family seemed to weigh on Chalos's shoulders, for he looked away from Dak and momentarily avoided his gaze. "And the younger blood seems to think that dropping reason is the best way to fix it."

An easy breeze began to pick up, rattling the young leaves around them and caressing their coats as if angels' paws providing comfort for the both of them. Lulled, Chalos lifted his nose, inhaling deeply. The only scents which came to him were those of Deor, his packland, his home. He ruled quietly, often unseen, and he frequently regretted doing so - an alpha unseen is, well.. not the most efficient way for his leadership to be known. Sooner or later, he would have to descend back into the heart of his territory, and renew his authority less someone attempt to be clever and snatch away his title. Even so, most who would challenge the sizeable varg would be dealt with in much the same manner as Genocide had been - with every bit of brute force that enormous frame could muster. At present, however, his position as well as his domination was nothing short of comfortable.

His attention was brought back to Dakota as the calm Beta again began to speak, now bringing up the subject of his own family - Mist, his coming pups, and a brother. Perhaps he should have been concerned when being told that this brother was one of Sarnes's ranks, but something in the Deorian leader gave him assurance; the last thing a trustworthy Mann would do is leave a trail. "The Drappa of Sarnes.." He mused quietly after the jet-furred other had trailed off. "I tend to not consider Sarnes or Balkar packs, more gatherings of loons, and it is a shame that any should think it sensible to walk among such.. creatures. They corrupt faster than a heartbeat, and I am sorry, for I know that the next time you see him, if ever again, he will not be anything of the wolf you knew in past times. I suggest you mourn for him as though he has died; it is what I did when my brother left me almost three years ago and he has returned to me only twice - once to threaten my unborn, and again to kill Lucivar. And both times, though I recognised his face and his name, he was a stranger to me. I am unsure how he has kept from walking amongst Sarnes and Balkar ranks, but he is as black-hearted as any and will surely join them soon enough."

Silence again followed his words, this time a long, brooding sort of pause, then, in an attempt to change the subject, "When I first took on the pack of Deor, I had hopes that I would be graced with a mate to share the territory with and a son to inherit. What I was given was a mate who was quickly taken from me and who left but two pups behind to continue our legacy. One pup, Linnaea, grew to hate this place and left. The other, Arous.." Chalos took a deep breath as if gathering strength, "...Resembled my brother in every way. He died the night he was born, between my jaws. Something in me knew that he would grow to be everything like the monstrosity I was raised with. And so, again, I am left with nothing - a pack to rule alongside a mated-elsewhere she-wolf I hardly know and that is all." Sad eyes now turned to Dakota, "We all have our secrets, and you are the first and only to know one of my deepest. You may notice that the things which hurt me most are memories of my family, for love has the power to taint even the most righteous of hearts. I pray you never face the same horrors."

The enormous wolf hauled himself to his feet, stretching his back, the vertebrae popping as they often did anymore, and began to leave. "I look towards meeting with you more often, but I have business outside of Deor. The next time you see me, Mist will have long since birthed and you may be far too busy for a private chat with anyone." Chalos muttered back to the Beta as he walked, "I do not know much about you, Dakota." A brief nod, then, "But know this: I have never considered anyone the son I will never have more than you."

[Dakota Spirit]

Even as an adult, there were still times in Dak's life where he was left feeling as a young pup, as if someone had plucked him up and dropped him in a whole new world. New experiences flooded his senses and often caused him to tip his head in quite wonder. The words of his departed mother would echo back to him with stunning clarity. My dear son...be careful not to close your mind off to whats right before your eyes. Not everything will play out as you imagine. And now, standing where the Dragga had left him, the dark male realized today to be one such situation. Chalos had agian offered up a healthy portion of wisdom and knowledge, having an answer for everything the Beta had presented. And when he was done, he'd gone just as quickly. Not with the sense that he was brushing Dak off but rather in a manner that suggested this is simply how it was, regardless of how much time you spent with him. That being in the presence of Deor's mighty leader gave off such a calming effect it lulled you into a serenity you weren't ready to lose. That his departure would always feel as if it were coming with a sudden bang. He watched as Chalos drifted by, feeling pulled as if by a hidden string, compelled to follow. Taking a few quick steps, Dakota trailed after the bigger male like the half grown pup that had momentarily taken over his head. Then, almost as abruptly, he stopped. And he watched as the fading bulk of his Dragga disappeared into the surrounding trees and mist. Left standing alone, he had nothing left to do but ponder what parting words the older wolf had offered.

It seemed strange to him, to feel so deeply for a wolf he barely knew outside professional acquaintance. Yet perhaps he'd been tailor made for such a bond to form. Dak had a warrior's heart and it was in him to show such dedication. To love one's leader was part of the job, part of what made him the soldier that he was. Willingness to serve and to offer his life in turn, for the safety of said leader was all he'd ever been able to offer the big male and any who had come before him. It was who he was and always seemed so natural. But this, this had somehow gone deeper then that. Chalos wasn't just a leader, he was the first one to offer Dakota the one thing he'd never really had in life. That is, the chance to grow underneath the guidance of another. The opportunity to matter and to make another proud. Somewhere the love had grown deeper then what was offered as a formal obligation. Somehow it had become a feeling of hope and trust, the wish to make Chalos think more then business upon hearing his name. Oblivious to the Beta, the auburn mann had slowly begun to fill the fatherly role his life had always lacked. And he knew now that this is what his mother's words had alluded too. For Dak had long since ceased his conscious search for whatever could fill that void. He'd deemed it impossible and turned the hopes from his mind. It was his heart that had kept searching, and his heart that had led him down this path when he was ready.

Smiling as he recalled Chalos's quite amusement and gentle reassurance. He wished he could offer the same to the alpha but it never seemed to come in time. Rather he thought of the proper words after the fact, when it was too late. And now he was left doing the same, thoughts lingering on the Dragga's shared sorrow and wishes to make it up to him. "Well my Lord...", the male whispered, knowing Chalos was too far away to hear and yet compelled to speak none the less. "I cannot give you back what you've lost, no more then I can fix my own heart's wounds. I can give you myself though, in exchange for what's been taken. And I can spend my life earning what you've given me. And perhaps one day in that...we will both find a bit of peace."

Turning then turning form his spot, Dakota Spirit, Beta to Deor and father to be, faded in his own direction. Body disappearing amongst the thick foliage he left the clearing with the same silence in which he'd entered. But he did so with his head higher, shoulders rounding out from the slump that had been there before. And he did so knowing with absolute clarity that this was where he had always belonged.

THREAD CLOSED

[Thanks so much for the RP, Chalos! I really enjoyed it am glad our chars finally had a chance to connect!]