The ghost knew that this was a step in the right direction to forge an alliance with their western neighbours. Along with aiding Reyes when the ebony man arrived at Hearthwood seeking medicine, Lachesis had hoped his actions weren’t for nothing. It was also not in his character to be malicious or selfish; if he did not enjoy helping others he would not have pursued the role of healer. He did not seek personal gain—he merely helped others out of the goodness of his heart. Because he could not fathom the idea of being loathed or watching others suffer.

He remained silent as the Rye duo spoke, offering them both a soft smile as they congratulated Hearthwood on their most recent litter. Lachesis knew how strange it must have sounded, that the river wolves had more than one litter this spring, but it certainly was not planned. All three of them weren’t. Unless Kisla had planned to conceive, but the ghost did not know. He had never questioned her on her pregnancy for, like him, she was a leader and was capable of making decisions on her own. If she had made the decision to have another litter Lachesis could not stop her, for she had every right to.

Lachesis gave a slow wag of his tail to say goodbye before turning away from the Rye borders, a smile still pressed to his lips. We’ll see you soon. He nodded silently to confirm Reyes’ words. After avoiding them for so long Lachesis had come to realize how wrong his opinions had been on the western pack, and how they had been tainted by the sharp tongue of Craw. At least he was mending things now—his mind unclouded by the spider’s voice. Without another word he took off into the lowlands, his chartreuse gaze focused on the trees in the distance… it was going to be a long venture home.