He saw the elder's warning in his gaze. The rogue was sure he had struck a nerve, but he was taking his own risk. He had to know if Craw had promised to see the patriarch of the Ridge again for something brutal. That would be a serious problem, and knowing ahead of time would be the best bet of the best out come for them.

Maybe, the elder Archer realized why Renier needed answers too. The still voice returned, smoothing over the thoughts the Lyall had presented. Clear who was the worry. All Renier took from it was, Nicolo would have a fight on his hands should Craw feel the need. Understandable. Then again he made the point of having someone on his side. Why the faintly masked Lyall could have given a cheeky retort about who should be sucking up to who, he didn't think he would be given another chance. He had a plan B, but he rather save it for later.

If only Nicolo had shared his sentiments about keeping his sister's legacy. It would have helped his case. Made him easier to like. Maybe, another day if things turned in his favor. Neither of them even knew that the woman herself was eavesdropping.

Ren held onto the silence between them. Choosing his words carefully. There was only one thing he could say. "Just his name leaves a poor taste in my mouth. There is no reason that should change, especially should he come here with ill intent. But, I can only be by your side if given the chance. I would like the opportunity to know who the real Nicolo Archer is." Was he someone worth serving? Protecting? Would he think Ren was more than a past lover of Morganna? He didn't want the Ridge to fall either?

The Lyall felt certain the Archer was still calculating. Listing the pro's and cons of his next choice. There was little else for Ren to do, but wait for his final decision. Hope his words hadn't fallen upon deaf ears. He would be given this chance when others had slipped from his grasp.

The observant wolf he was, he saw the faint lift of lip of the Ridge Leader at the mention of Morganna's mate. A good sign, no doubt. With all possible differences between them there would be an important thing to keep them united. The future of Willow Ridge, and all those against it. This, was what mattered, not necessarily the past. How to build the Ridge back up.

At the dark man's final word relief flooded through him in an instant. He could not help the smile that came. But, humbly, and most gratefully bowed his head. "Thank you, sir." There was little else that mattered to Ren, and now there was a lot to be done in his absence. He took it upon himself to then inquire of his leader what he may do. Building up the territory bounds seemed like a good place to start, and he swiftly made his own exit to do so.

{fade}