Fog was nothing new for the wolves of Oak Tree Bend, but today's vapor seemed particularly dense; And icy cold. Perhaps it was fitting that it would be on a day like this, where Spectral Woods showed its true, ghostly face, that the wolves of the Bend would gather to decide their fate. In any case, it had been much too long already, and the ebony leader was more than ready to abandon these nightmarish lands. So he walked a last patrol, along the line of the Sierra Hills, like he always did when he felt uneasy; Wherever I end up, it will be far away from those bloody stones! He paused briefly to drink from the silvery stream, the water still slow flowing and icy cold. No sign of spring here, but it had to be under way.

Once he finished, he crossed to the old Oak, again taking his time, circling the tree, studying it from root to crown. It almost felt like an old friend now, a lot of good times had been spend under its branches; Not all good though… Far from it in fact, which was why it had come to this. Drestig scraped at the snow, unearthing the sprouting grass hidden beneath. He sat down, looking around at the naked trees, truly taking in this territory that had, after all, been his home for two years. His gaze rested on the den, on the hillside nearby, empty at the moment, unless someone had snuck in for a nap without him seeing. Of the entire pack lands, these were the least painful, many warm memories filling his mind as he sat silently, deep in thought.

He knew though, that that happiness could never outweigh the sorrow, not so long as he remained here. That was why he had come to his decision. But first, he had a screw-up to own up to. So when his head finally tilted back, it was Triell he called for; Triell ONLY this time. And there was an unusual humility in his request; Not begging for his appearance, but not commanding it either.

Word count: 353

Thoughts ”Speech”

Time ticked by, ever so slowly. For every second, the nerves build up within him; Where is he?! Could he have been so unfortunate as to choose a time when Triell was out of the territory, too far to hear his beckon? But then the response reached him, familiar deep toned voice ringing out in a very curt acknowledgement. Well, I couldn't expect him to be happy… The graying leader though, a small, crooked smile on his lips. Triell was expecting a goodbye, surely; Hopefully he'll be happily surprised.

The Tainn finally appeared, his greeting as lukewarm as his call. But Drestig smiled at him, nodding his head while the other took a seat. He figured he might as well get it over with, and hopefully lighten the mood between them, at least a bit. His voice was a little rugged at first, but smoothed with use; "Triell. I owe you an apology." Simple as that, straight to the point. His smile turned a little sheepish, but he kept his eyes on the man, sincerity lacing his every word; "I wasn't fair to you, pushing you to choose like that." He'd taken the cowards way, trying to force someone else to make the decision for him. He had to stop that. So, with a deep breath, he put everything out in the open: "You were right, I wasn't telling the whole truth. I'm sorry, I'll make things right today." That was it, what he had to offer. Now he could just wait for Triell's response.

Word count: 255

Thoughts ”Speech”

The Tainn was hard to read, and Drestig found himself growing ever more anxious as he waited for a response, trying to gauge the other man's reaction. Triell took his time, blinking in… Was it surprise? Or something more severe? Finally he spoke though, and his words made the elder wolf breath a small sigh of relief himself. It seemed their friendship had not been completely ruined, even if it was a bit worn at the edges. Their argument had been a clash of wills, and Drestig was willing to admit his mistake, even if his younger counterpart wasn't quite. "You were speaking your mind, and I respect you for that. Even if it isn't always what I want to hear… And thank you." He said, voice sincere; Ignoring the unfinished sentiment. He knew he had pushed Triell to react so fiercely, and he should have known his fried well enough not to do it. He'd done a stupid thing in challenging the former leader rather than explaining to him outright; Which is why we're here now.

Taking a deep breath, the graying man nodded, turning his gaze from the other's to look out over the clearing around them. He was still for a moment, preparing, then he answered: "Yes. Let me call them and I'll explain to everyone together." He turned his head back, fiery eyes seeking similar oranges, as if to ask permission first. Then he nodded once, and tilted his muzzle skyward, calling out to the wolves of the Bend. He had something to discuss with his family.

Word count: 261

Thoughts ”Speech”