Time had passed since the birth of her pups and the newly crowned Elite swelled with glory and pride, amongst love and tenderness. Coming to love how she felt being a mother, to love something more than she loved Kenai, more than she loved the pack or even herself. It was deep rooted, bound to her soul, and something that no one could strip her of. Even past her lifetime, it was an unbreakable bond. Even as her children grew, and as they would grow, she would pass, and her children would birth children, and the cycle would continue, that bond would never be broken. Alas, Aurora found what she placed here to do, her duties on Earth, reproduction as a whole into repopulation. Aurora finally felt like she belonged. Every puzzle piece she obtained along the way, every moment passed, lead her to this moment right here and right now. Aurora looked down at the new pups nursing along her side, tucked under her fur which was void of color and void of obstruction, there sat Channing and Oliver.

One of charcoal and silvers much like their father, this being the largest of the two and nearly double her brother's size, Channing. The plump female was thick and chubby, fat from her mother's milk, but under the great meals provided to her by Hunter Altair (someone whom Aurora admired and oddly reminded her of a fellow she met along the way in her travels). Although, fat, she was built and obtained for fighting, built far more like her father with the thickness of her mother's coat. Though she was beautiful, quiet, and shy. Never speaking a word until they were alone at night, where their whispers couldn't be hear by anyone else. Aurora too reserved to share this with the world, personally wanting the most time with them alone, getting to know them, getting to know the both of them, before the world knew them. It was all she had left. Beside the female of greys, was a lithe and nearly frail looking copper blotched male, and he was called Oliver. Scrawny and thin, not because Channing being the bully of the two and forcing her brother from the nipple, Oliver had no will yet to live. Wanting nothing to do with the whole process of growing older and it was around this time that Oliver began to change. Still Aurora loved him but it showed that he was not as loved as Channing, who would prove to excel at most things in the future.

This was not said, it was not scene, it was private. Private for Aurora and her mate, for her pups, for the one she lost. A secret, which indeed can blossom and hold true to what nature says it's provide, or it can destruct finding it's way through the cracks and seams in your life. Finding the life it wanted to be out in the open, only shedding light onto the holes in your world. Making you believe how delusional you think, that it was all perfect from the start. No, it was right here, right now, where Aurora place a ticket. Something clicked, forcing her to remember every detail about this moment because she knew, it was the start to every problem that would come later in life. Yes, it was when she look upon them nursing, roughly around their 4th month of life, the sun was high in the sky and they barely moved. The spring life around them bloomed with sounds of laughter, love, and happiness but it was fear that consumed Aurora. Depression as she looked upon her pups and then to the caretaker lying across the den where her mate, Elite Kenai slept. For he was careful to not disturb Aurora and the pups, being the perfect mate and companion, but always being there in the times when she couldn't sleep knowing he had duties to perform in the morning. Perfection. It was when Aurora spoke, "All I wish for them is independance", Aurora gazed at them so lovingly but still felt a deepening sadness that indeed would never truly disappear.

Shaking her head abruptly she seemed to come back but still looked outside the den's opening, then briefly around the den. The den was small and clean, smelling of dried leaves and grass, and Aurora lie in the far corner of the hollow in the ground. Although cramping you would be able to fit four adult wolves in there, although none wanting to sit there long, so Aurora moved to the front of the den. The entry to Kenai's den was large enough for Aurora to sit or stand comfortable, without allowing access to the den without permission, as well as keeping wandering puppies indoors. Knowing that either pup was now full, Channing passed out in the same spot she fed in, and Oliver wanting to snuggle was forced from her side and to her rear. A slight whimper was heard as he struggled to stay way, but eventually moved to where the sunlight warmed the ground by a peephold, causing Channing to move and apologize. Aurora smiled as she sat at the entrance with Crystal, a female she accepted on wounded terms, and a great friend whom she had bonded close with since the birth of her pups. "Altair is coming by today, no? I can't remember." Aurora directed the question to Crystal, but also to herself, as she looked out among the wolves in the clearing. Some trying to beat the ever growing heat, some making friends, some finding love, some growing older, and it was all her for the training. Each and everyone of them she saw before her was either a hunter or warrior, despite those of higher ranks like herself, which meant she would have to get to know them. A bonding process all around.

Crystal sat up when Aurora came over after feeding her pups and sat next to her at the entrance to the den. Watching the pups, Crystal's mind went back over the events of the birth. She had felt absolutely terrified when Aurora first went into labour. She had somehow managed to hide her fear from Aurora and was relieved when three pups were delivered safely. Sadly one of the pups, a male, hadn't survived and Crystal still felt sadness at the youngster's death.

The biggest of the two remaining pups, Channing was thriving. However Crystal was concerned about her brother, Oliver who was not doing so well. But at the moment both pups seemed quite content where they were. Crystal smiled and then gazed out at the activity outside the the den. She really hoped that she would find a mate and have pups of her own one day. She was jerked out of her thoughts when Aurora spoke, asking if Altair was coming by today. "Hmm I don't know." she replied giving Aurora, the wolf she considered a close friend and adoptive mother a lick. She vaguely remembered Altair after seeing him around a few times.

On hurried paws the four year old male found himself stumbling over his paws, his chest rose and fell in a hurried pace as he attempted to soothe his breathing, he had just returned to hunting with a duck clamped in his jaws, feathers stuck to his fur or tickled his nose as he paused to assess his whereabouts. Yes it had to be nearby, his eyes squinted as he looked over the familar bushes and tree's. "Ah!" His exclaim was muffled by the feathers before he began with a quick trot, poking his head to view in he was greeted with the site of two females at the entrance. One being the female he sought out, after he had been told of the pups and how Aurora was doing. He gave a wag before slowly creeping forward, he bowed his head when he was sure the fae's knew he was there, the thing he was uncertain of was if he were allowed in the den at the time. Dropping the fairly large bird at her paws he nudged it forward with a smile. "Food for milk..." His voice was soft and low, afraid that he would disturb any sleeping pups, oh how he wanted to see the bundles, he pranced lightly from paw to paw watching the two. "How do you feel Aurora?"

The sun, oh how it shone as it peaked over the tall and bloming leaflets of the trees. The golden rays played upon the cool breeze as it blew about within black furn. Tossing it and curling it within slightly cold fingers of the currents it carried. Ears facing towards the playful rays as they soon laid on onyx furn of the wolf that sat upon the hill. This wolf had been troubled durning the night within her den by nightmares of her past. By the loneless she left while other slept with their mates and new borns. This fae had been tormented by nightmares ever since her mother had faded from her and into the lands that no wolf was see able. Sapphire eyes took in the greens, pinks, and purples of the morning sky and the grass below it. No thoughts filled this cranium as she fae sat in silence of the morning, rising before the eun was always a good way to watch as the sun woke and began the day of the forest life. Birds sang within hte distance, twigs broke under the hooves of deer as they stepped lightly upon the green brushes. Shipmonks and squirrls ran about as they had finally awakened from their deep slumbers. As for the fae, well she had been awake and alert for the whole cold and harsh winter, struggling to find food for the others as the herds moved about. What is this fae's name? Lead Hunter Shadow, a strong and slightly troubled fae; but happy as she needed to be.

Deciding it was time for a hunt Shadow stood onto her nightly paws, claws sharp as steel as they dug into the earth beneth her pads. She lifted her nose towards the baby blue sky with white puffy clouds that dotted it every so often. Sniffing she was searching for a scent, anything really; just to say that she had been hunting for this day. Something small for now, for the big game was for when her leading partner, Lead Hunter Eclipse, and team were there to help her. So a small animal would have to do, and soon she smelt the scent of a hare as it was near by. Shadow located it and crept forwards with silent paws, realising she was down wind, a grin crossed her maw as the brown and white hare came into full view finally. It was plump from feasting on greens as it had awakened from its own slumber, and lucky her; its back was to her. Shadows lip curled as she snarled just before she leaped and snapped the tiny neck within her jaws and instantly killed it. Bllod rushed to her tongue and it made her slightly hungry, but this wasn't for her; but for the pack. She would eat at a later time. As for now she turned and headed back to the clearing on trotting paws.

After a little while of traveling, the lead hunter made it to the camp clearing. Her eyes took in hte place she knew all to well, so well that as she looked around her paws had taken her toe the pile where she lays the kills she and the others make down for others to take for their nurishment and strength. As shadow began to turn away from teh pile she caught side of wolves at Aurora's and her mates den. Slightly interested she padded over to see what the comotion was about, plus she seen a new member to the pack that she hadn't yet met and she thought it would be a good idea to start a new friendship and to be atleast on a know-you-bases with all wolves within the Helidos pack. More so if they were to be a hunter. As Shadow got closer she seen a caretaker named Crystal, someone she didn't know personally; but had heard good things about. Then stopping by the new wolf she dipped her head to all of them in a greeting manner before she smiled to Aurora. The white warrior, or well now elite, that had accepted her into the wonderful pack so many months ago. Her eyes looked slightly troubled as she tried to hide the pain of her own problems that stabbed her in the night with painful dreams. She said nothing, but the smile on her face said it all; she was glad to be here. And with others she liked to well.

The white female sat there, her paws firmly before her, and her stature was proud as was her heart. With a smile to the caretaker's response it was not long after her reply that the male she sought out did indeed show. The beautiful red's in his coat shined brightly as he climbed the small mound to where her den lie, how the meat hung from his muzzle, and how happy his eyes shone under the illuminated sky made him look healthy and content with his life in the pack. Making Aurora sigh with relief that he had found a place where his demon's wouldn't follow.Closing her eyes briefly she collected her thoughts and bowed to the young male as he took his place near her. "Altair, how are you, dear friend?" Aurora's voice was like milk, soft and gentle flowing.

Bright blue eyes were like diamonds as she blinked at him, a smile creeping her jaws, and she spoke again, "You are a mighty fine hunter, Shadow would be proud to have her apart of her team." Aurora thought back briefly to when she fist met the blackened female, and she was yet again proud of her for becoming Lead Hunter. How many of the wolves she had accepted had indeed grown to new ranks, new lives, and new loves. With the flick of her ear she head someone coming around the bend and to her surprise it was the female she had just spoke of. "Shadow, speaking of, this is Altair. A hunter in our pack and a loyal friend of mine, he is a recent new comer to Helidos, and had been more than helpful. Supplying meals to me in times of need or when I am unable to leave because of the pups. I was saying how he would be beneficial to you as a friend and a hard worker. And, this lovely lady, is Crystal, a caretaker under Alanoth's guide. Loyal as well to me for the help with the pups." She smiled as she looked to Crystal.

Aurora smiled as she saw the male look at Shadow and Shadow look at Altair. For a brief moment, Aurora thought of them as a couple, but it was then that Aurora noticed a sad look to the long time friend Shadow. "Love, are you alright, you look like you've seen a ghost." Aurora fell quiet and left her place, striding to Shadow's side, and nuzzeling her neck, briefly resting her head on her shoulder. Then under her breath she address Shadow, her lips right beside the black ear, "If you care to speak in private, you may stick around, and you and I can speak alone in the den. You can personally meet the pups." Giving her time to think about it, she stepped back and returned to the others and her prior seating spot. "Later. Right now is a time for me to introduce other's and meet the new wolves I have yet to have the pleasure of speaking too. All are welcomed." Aurora spoke loud enough for several wolves near her could hear, wanted all that she had not met to come and speak to her. "How is everyone?" She asked again as she found comfort once more.

The newly appointed Delta Nnlya had already risen that morning and been on her patrols of the border. Since the pack meeting, making herself and Drogo Deltas, there had been no calls for access. It saddened Nnlya somewhat as this was a part of her new position she rather looked forward to. She had wanted to be the first to greet the newcomers into Helidos and place them in good stead, perhaps making a few new friends. The Delta was a rather jolly wolf, as some had called her, eager to make others feel happy and welcome. She was almost always seen with a smile on her face, a spring in her step or perhaps just a little flick in her tail. Aside from when she trained that is. When she took the Warrior a Yiska and Hunter Altair under her paw to train, her personality completely changed. Of the two Deltas, she would still remain the more light hearted, but her face turned into a mask of emotionless concentration and her posture was formal. Though she offered words of encouragement when she felt it necessary. She took training seriously, believing that all wolves should have the ability to protect their pack.

But now, with the sun farther in the sky, she was examining the kill pile and considering whether she ought to duck out and pop a few more rabbits on for good measure. Though not far from where she was, she heard a voice raise against the wind, calling, All are welcomed The faes head perked up to see a small gathering around the Elite pairs den. She wondered if perhaps they were meeting the pups for the first time. She wondered if she might be allowed to glimpse them, as she adored pups, but thought that perhaps she wasn't quite close enough to the Elite female for such an honour. She noticed the Hunter Altair in the midst of other wolves she had scarcely met beyond a "Hello". She realised she had yet to offer a personal congratulations to Aurora on her new position, clinching it for her. She left the kill pile for another time and trotted merrily to the gathering outside the den. She gently made her way to stand beside Altair, nodding a quick hello before paying respects other superior. Nodding her head she stated. Good morning to you Aurora. I don't believe I have seen you since the meeting and wish to offer my congratulations on your new rank. A quick peek past the fae told her the pups were in the den sleeping. And on the new additions to your family.

The Delta stepped back, taking a seat by Altair. She turned to face the others. Hello to you all. For those who do not know, I am Nnlya. I hope I haven't interrupted anything I shouldn't have. She dipped her head slightly to the group as a whole before turning to face the new mother once more. A questioning look overcame her cerulean eyes. Might she stay, or would it be best if she left?

When Altair turned up, Crystal greeted him with a soft "hello", a nod and a smile. He was a handsome wolf, Crystal thought as she watched Aurora greet him. Soon another wolf turned up, this one who Crystal believed to called Shadow had the most beautiful sapphire coloured eyes that Crystal had ever seen and again she greeted her with a soft "hello", a nod and a smile. Crystal just sat there as Aurora spoke, just letting the sunlight and its' warmth wash over her. She sighed happily, It had been a while since she had felt this safe and happy.

Soon yet another wolf turned up and introduced herself as Delta Nnlya. Crystal again greeted her with a soft "hello", a nod and a smile. Then she stepped forwards to introduce herself properly. " Hello everyone, As Elite Auror has mentioned, I'm Crystal, a caretaker under the guidance of Analoth. I recently arrived here wounded and was accepted by Aurora into the pack. Pleased to make your aquaintance." she said softly, shifting slightly as she spoke, to ease the stiffness in her scarred leg, before retreating back to her spot. She was choosing not divulge too much of her story before she came here. Maybe in time, she would tell them, but not right now as the memories were still too painful for her.

He smiled softly at aurora with a sigh before leaning forward and brushing his nose to her shoulder. "I am glad to see you are well." His ears flickering in embarrassment at the compliment before he turned to greet crystal and shadow. "Greetings, it is my pleasure to meet you. I'm sure you do not want a repeat of my name? To be echoed so much might be..." Altair softly chuckled while looking between the two before pausing on shadow. "I do hope my work pleases you, i only want the best for the pack. To feed them is my life." With a small hmm he turned to see the lovely delta he knew as Nnyla he stepped with a paw but froze. He gave a slow nod in greetings. "Good evening Nnyla....is drogo with you?" His voice teasing though a slight brisk of jealousy could be found if you knew what you were looking for. Pulling himself back from his thoughts he thought of the wolves here now and hoped the lessening space wouldn't stress aurora. His eyes were tender as he watched the mother. Maybe he was beginning to see the fae as a sister, he could remember the words she spoke when they met and how she exclaimed the pack was truly a family, it was warm now, here at her den, with the occasional squeak of a sleeping pup. Would he ever have his own? Well no worry's for such thoughts, he had a pack and that was all he needed.

Shadow sat in since as her ears listened to the words of the others words, a swueak from a sleeping pup caught her attention as she looked from her sitting position and mentally grinned. Happy for her dear friend that she had found the one she wished to be with for the rest of her days, and that the two had heirs in the process. But soon Aurora's silky voice penetrated her thoughts of maybe becoming a mother one day on her own, but no time soon. Duties were at call, her happiness would have to wait; for she wasn't her to frolic around as brutes chased her. Oh no, she was a wolf of duties and hard work now. Her childish play had came to an end as she grew with the wisedom of the elder wolves that passed their knowledge down to her. Shadow's bright and somewhat distant eyes were on the white fae she had been close with for many moons now. Aurora was the first she spoke with, the first she hunted for, and the first to strike a friendship with that would last like no other. So for the white fae to inform her on the new hunter first, was yet another thing that made her gleeful. Shadow turned her sapphire eyes on the brute and dipped her head to him in greeting with a slight grin,"I welcome you then Altair, with open arms and a warm smile upon my face. I am empressed with your hunting, birds can be difficult to catch for they are hard to sneak upon, unless you have mastered the skill. I am sure you will be a great asset to mine and my leading partners hunting party. We are always in need of more hunters. More so now for the pups are coming and will soon be able to eat the meals we bring to the table. I also thank you for taking care of my friend while I was away, she is dear to me." Shadow looked to Aurora as she then introduced her to Crystal, she dipped her head,"pleased to meet you as well Crystal. I surely hope you are settling in well."

As Aurora stepped to her she nuzzled her back, in fact she did need to speak with the white fae. Although she nodded her agreence to speak afterwards in private. "I am fine, but there are facts that I wish to speak with you about. Things I must share with you",as she whispered back before the fae moved away. Shadow heard the sound of paws behind her, as she turned and looked she realized she didn't know this fae; but apparently Altair did. She raised a onyx brow as she heard the twinge in jealously within his voice, but instead of questioning him she let it be. Sitting on beside Aurora as she watched the others, she shook her head,"no, you have not disruppted anything of importance. Just a friendly gathering, so welcome. I am Lead Hunter Shadow, pleased to meet you Delta Nnyla." Shadow sat up with straight posture as her head was high and her ears pointed towards teh heavens. Listening to the others.

Recalling what Shadow had said to her not moments before she returned to her spot, there was something urgent in her voice, and Aurora couldn't shake it. Her dear friend was bothered by something and that bothered Aurora, now having the place of Elite in the pack, she was to make sure that all were comfortable. The lead warriors and hunters in this pack were just as important as any other rank. Speaking of, Aurora had noticed another female coming their way, it was when Altair had said her name that Aurora's tail wagged. It was the newly appointed Delta, the one whom Azul blessed the rank upon. It made Aurora proud to have a rank so worthy bestowed upon the former hunter or warrior. Aurora knew not much about her, but would soon get a glimpse into her soul. Adding more to the list of those whom were acquaintances and those whom were family. Some were in between those two drastic lines, because not everything was black and white with Aurora, the grey scale in the middle seemed to do wonders in her life, never knowing what to expect or what comes next. It was something Aurora valued above all else.

"Ahh, Delta Nnyla. How befitting and the rank only helps to radiate your beautiful stature and pelt. You are a beautiful girl. Its an honor to meet the young lady who takes over for me as I step forth. A rank like that is a true treasure, as I said at the pack meeting. The people you meet..." She paused and looked at the three whom were already with her, how she had accepted each of them, on her own terms and own time. Each one taking a special place in her heart. "The people you meet leave impressions on your soul, your heart, and your mind. Each one taking a piece of you when they cross that border. Even the ones you may have to turn away. It's an experience that is always renewed, every time, because you never know what your going to find. What treasure for the pack lies across those lines. Although I did not accept you, I accepted each of these before you. Shadow, who is now a Lead Hunter. Altair, a profound hunter in the pack, if I say so myself. And, Crystal, who helped with the birth of my pups. It doesn't matter who crosses that line, Nnyla, it's who they become at the fate of your choice." Aurora smiled as she address the female from her heart, her eyes closing as she recalled each one, and what they have become.

"Love. We need to keep that in our hearts or else we have nothing. And, thank you for your congratulations to myself, but also to you. Yes, to my pups as well, Channing and Oliver. They are resting and will not be joining us but I am positive that they shall venture soon. Personally, I wish to keep them in that den as long as I can. It's hard knowing that they will be able to go and pester you all soon. Taking a load off my back." Aurora joked and laughed, turning back to look into the den, the two pups were still sleeping, twitching and whimpering in their dreams, each snuggled up to the other to find warmth. Fat and full. As she glanced back to the others, she smiled. "Drogo, that's the Delta, your counter part. Is he your mate? I do apologize for being so forward. The rest of us are all matching pairs, I assumed, forgive me if he isn't." Aurora bowed to the Delta. "That's just me, being a match maker. Love, what did I tell you." The white female chuckled again.

She turned to Altair, the hope clear in his eyes. No, Drogo is not with me. If you're looking for him I'm sure you might find him in the hollow where we trained. That spot is a particular favourite of his. She was particularly close with the brute but she didn't know where they stood. It seemed they might be the ones to help each other from their dark pasts and provide a small spark that can lead you out of the empty, hollow cave and into the sunshine once more.

As for the white fae, when she spoke Nnlya could have blushed if a wolf had the ability. Such compliments of beauty and radiance had never been bestowed upon her. It warmed her heart that this fae she barely knew beyond being her superior could speak so eloquently about her. The words felt so truthful she didn't even consider doubting them. As the Elite reflected on her past in her previous rank and the wolves she had welcomed, Nnlya realised the common bond that all of these wolves shared. Aurora had personally welcomed them and remained close with them, providing them with guidance and aid as they started their life anew. The Delta hoped to follow Auroras lead and be as wonderful and successful as her. She admired the joy she took in everything. Nnlya much preferred and enjoyed being happy, but sometimes her tainted past would creep up on her and remind her that no male could ever want her. So when Auroras train of thought turned to her Delta counterpart, Drogo, and asked if they were mates, her good mood soured for a moment.

Thank you for your kind compliments Aurora. And all of you for your welcome. I do hope to at the very least come close to your success in this position. When I swore myself into service to the pack I did not take it lightly and I intend to ensure the happiness and safety of those I share a home with. Sadly there have been no new arrivals to the border for me to meet but I am sure that things will pick up. For now the pack is flourishing and I could ask no more. She paused, considering the white faes inquisitive nature and smiled before she remembered the question. No, Drogo is not my mate. He is a good brute and takes his job seriously, as do we all. Though I'm afraid one does not quite know where they stand with that one. He seems unused to female company, which I attribute to goings on in his previous homeland. Though the details of which I will not discuss without his express permission. As for mates in general I do not have one as of yet, but I do hope to someday raise pups of my own. She drew a breath, steadying herself and turning her thoughts in a more positive direction. I take your advice gratefully and assure you, there is plenty of love in my heart for those who deserve it.

The charcoal, cream and coffee fae thought that perhaps she was rambling for far too long, but she appreciated every word that dropped from the new mothers maw and gladly lapped it up. She was not one to look a gift carcass in the mouth after all.

Spring had come, and with it pups had blessed Helidos with their presence. Joy was quick to spread through the air, filling each wolf with a sense of pride and responsibility. Though they had their mother and father, pups were the responsibility of all, for they were the future generations that would stand where they stood, hold the positions they did, and carry on the name of Helidos for generations to come. While all the others seemed to buzz with joy and excitement, it was caution and uncertainty that flowed through the sullen soldier. He had never truly had the pleasure of being a pup. Training had begun far to soon for him to enjoy the simplicities of pup hood. He had witnessed many of his comrades crack beneath the pressure that was put upon them at such a young age. Fragile little things they truly were, though he had somehow managed to rise above and exceed all expectations. That wasn't a future he wanted for these pups, not a future he would allow and in order to prevent such, he knew he must distance himself from the small pups. And so distance himself he had.

After the birth of the new Elite, Aurora's pups, he had made sure to busy himself with his newly appointed duties. He dared not risk tainting their puphood with the strictness that he lived his own life. 3 months had passed since their arrival, and despite his wishes to isolate himself from them, he knew it would be rude of him as a Delta not to pay his respects and give congratulations to the proud new mother. Despite ever fibre of his being protesting against it, he set out from the border and towards camp, headed for the Elite's den. Thoughts whirred within his mind as to what he would say. He would keep his congratulations short, limit his time spent there as not to risk having to meet the pups. While he would protect them with his life, part of what they needed protecting from was him.

As he neared the camp clearing, a collage of scents crept into his nose, coming from the Elite's den. It appeared that Drogo was not the only wolf who had chosen today to praise the new mother on a job well done. Swallowing his unease, he stepped into the clearing, and padded towards the den. A few faces were known to him, and some were not. The first face he recognized was that of Nnlya. Seeing her face among them came as a relief to him. She was his light in the darkness, that pulled him towards better days, and a brighter future. His tense muscles relaxed ever so slightly knowing that she would be there. Another familiar face was that of the Hunter Altair. He and Nnlya had taken it upon them to train the hunter along side the Warrior Yiska. The last familiar face was that of Aurora. She had been so kind to him when she had welcomed him into Helidos.

As he drew closer, sensitive ears flickered, picking up a few words that were spoken. Among them he could have sworn he had heard his own name, but dismissed the thought quickly. Making his way to stand along side Nnlya, he extended a courteous bow to Aurora. "Elite Aurora. It has been quite some time. I have come to congratulate you on both your promotion, and the pups that you have blessed Helidos with. I am sure they will both have bright futures and do great things as both of their parents have. I want you to know that they, just as ever wolf here does, have my full protection and that I would lay down my life for them." he said trying to sound polite, though the formality and gruff tone of his true voice seeped through.

Letting his eyes shift to a rather comfortable place upon Nnlya, a faint smile tugged at the corners of his lips. "Delta Nnlya. It is good to see you." he said, this time a faint lightness easily found its way into his words. He could see something had been sparked in her eyes. Perhaps it was simply the bliss of the pups that all the wolves seemed to share, but perhaps it was something more. He still truly knew very little about females, so did she too perhaps desire to have pups of her own? Did she wish for a mate to lay down with at night, to wake up to every morning? He did not know, nor could he truly say that he knew what it was that he wanted anymore. All he knew for certain was that she always seemed to bring out the best in him, and that was more than any other wolf had been capable of before. Turning to the other wolves, he gave them all a silent nod in greeting, and awaited patiently for whomever would speak up next.

Crystal sat and continuing to watch the activity beyond the den, just let the conversation of the wolves surrounding her, wash over her. Every so often she would turn her head and look behind her into den, to see what the pups were doing. At the moment, they were both still fast asleep and Crystal smiled when she saw them snuggle closer together. They reminded her so much of the family she had lost. Turning her head back, Crystal noticed that yet another wolf had joined them.

Crystal vaguely recognised the newcomer as Delta Drogo. He and Nnlya had recently been promoted to Deltas and Crystal had not yet congratulated them or Aurora on their new ranks. Crystal took a deep breath and turned to Drogo, Aurora and Nnlya. "By the way congratulations on your new ranks, all three of you." she said speaking softly. Glancing at Shadow, Crystal felt worried. She had excellent hearing and had unintentionally overheard the conversation between Shadow and Aurora.

There was something about Shadow that intrigued Crystal and she could not quite put her paw on what it was. Shadow also looked sad, Crystal thought. Having a big heart and gentle personality, Crystal hated seeing anyone upset. So leaving her spot, she padded softly over to Shadow and gave her a friendly lick and rubbed her head gently against Shadow's, as though to try and reassure her about whatever it was that was bothering her.

The sound of voices was nice to the ears, he'd never been around so many wolves so it was natural for him to watch with wonder. His eyes paused on shadow as she spoke to him, he felt abashed at the compliment and dipped his head. "My thanks to you Miss Shadow. I hope to learn from you, a hunt could do?" He kept quiet at she and aurora addressed one another quietly, feeling out of the conversation or well he knew he shouldn't listen so he turned to look at the caretaker. "It is nice to meet so many of this pack, i hope to know you and be friends. And for the pups, i'm sure they will be well in your care." He smiled genuinely as he found himself once more being quiet. There seemed quite a bustle and most he didn't quite understand but one he did was aurora's congratulations to Nnlya, he waited before moving forward towards the fae again. "You really deserve the rank i do believe. Both you and Drogo are wise and the newcomers could learn lots. I know i have." He was tempted to nudge the female in some term of affection but the appearance of drogo made him pause. Even after Nnlya proclaimed the two were not in such stations of being mates. It was the emotion in the air that made Altair hesitate when it came to them. He didn't know whether to be jealous and stand against his so called foe or step back and watch with a wistful glance. Maybe one day but he guessed not today.

Paws of onyx quietly pummeled the ground as the Guardian gently cantered among the soft earth and grass. Fel had woken up early and left to stretch her legs, knowing that Alanoth was always with her pups anyway. It was relieving to know that her children were under the supervision of their father, allowing her to roam upon her usual working schedule. Though her pups were of immense value to the middle-aged fae, her duty to the pack had to be put first in all situations for it was one of great importance and there was no room for a single mistake. Any miniscule careless error could lead to the death of a wolf, and Fel was responsible for the lives of several wolves of great importance to the pack.

After making a few rounds in solitude, she turned to the clearing and slowed to a silent walk. She detected the presence of several wolves and considered going around them, but finally reached the decision to come forward and at least greet her packmates. Her long pelt gently swishing with each movement of her large frame, the guardian approached the amassing group as she scanned those present for any familiar faces. She recognized Nnlya, Aurora, and Shadow immediately, and some others that had been recognized at the last meeting. The grayish fae, she could remember from seeing around the dens, was a caretaker, but she didn’t recall her name. Fel could pick up that they were simply having a friendly conversation amongst themselves, so she implied that her arrival would not be a disturbance. Her voice was smooth and almost indifferent as she spoke, “Greetings to you all.” Blue eyes that were almost drained of their color looked over them all in turn. “I see several wolves whose efforts have recently been recognized, and offer my congratulations. To those whom I have not yet met and, in turn, have not fully met me, I am Guardian Fel. Though it is nice to see a few familiar faces.” With the last sentence, her gaze floated to Shadow, offering the slightest of a smile. Fel then turned back to look at the entire group, still standing along the side of the miniature gathering.