He was tired.

Nash wondered if he hadn't had enough time to recover from his illness before the smoke descended upon them. Most days he was okay, but sometimes it felt as though there was a weakness in his limbs he just couldn't master. He hoped with the smoke beginning to clear he might finally be back to normal. He had too much to do to worry about his own body failing him.

Speaking of things to do, Leo's call met his ears and Nash turned to trot towards the request, tail sweeping behind him in curiosity. It seemed he wasn't the only one ready for the smoke to finish clearing. "Good afternoon," he greeted warmly, smiling at the young man. He was looking good, considering their circumstances, giving the leader hope for the coming winter.

Nash listened politely as Leo started, explaining that he was feeling better with the smoke fading. Nash had to admit relief; they all seemed to be bouncing back, for the most part, and the pack was growing stronger once again. Even Eclypse. Then Leo continued and Nash's ears perked up. Leo had mentioned the desire to become a guardian in the past, and then the year unfolded the way it did and Nash hadn't had time to really teach the boy anything. They'd barely been hanging on as it was.

"I would say I'd hope it won't be necessary, but the reality of mountain living is danger," the leader said. "Fighting different opponents requires different techniques. You wouldn't fight a bear the same way you would a cougar, or either the way you would another wolf. The variety is worth having. What would you like to know?" Starting one at a time would be best, but Nash would make sure he was available to help him. He wished Chan was still here; he was so much more knowledgeable about these things.

No, Nash thought, making himself pause. He needed to be more confident. He'd earned his own set of scars as trophies, gained his own experience. He was the leader of Sanguine Cove; he needed to have confidence. He'd made it this long - he was more than capable of teaching Leo too.