The winter was being harsh to them all. Lately, Ash had found himself seeking the warmth of other pack mates around him, and though he could sense the distaste that some of the children had for him, he still tried to give them what they needed and tried to provide for them in the best way he could. Still there father had not returned and Ash could only assume that the coward had left his pack to fend from themselves during the winter. Though from what he had heard from Nina, Sloane should have been quite the nobleman, but from what he was witnessing now was anything but. He had not even told his pack that he had gone out to find his mate, whom had returned to them upon Ash and Minka's approve. Narime was quite the beauty and Ash could not find it in himself to think bad about the woman. She had given him no reason to doubt he loyalty to the pack, but thought it best that Minka remain in leadership until the younger woman got control of her constantly worried state of mind. It would bring curse upon this pack if they had an unstable leader among them.

He had not expected an unfamiliar call sounding from his borders and promptly turned in the direction that it was coming from, lightly cursing himself for being on the other side of the borders. Hopefully another member, preferably someone he knew would already be there and asking some questions so he could get the run down. Breaking into a brisk sprint the dark male flew through the now familiar lands...his lands. Ash did not know what he would have done had he not had leadership experience before this. He had been resistant at first when presented with the role a year ago and now found himself settling comfortably into the position. He did not abuse it, but found it useful to pull rank so that everyone knew when he meant business, which was often, but usually no one questioned his motives. He was pleased to see that he was not the first to arrive and was greeted with the back of Minka. With her in view, Ash straightened out his position and rounded his shoulders back, making him seem much taller and powerful. Pushing forward with an air of importance to him, he walked forward, purpose clear in his step as he towered next to the woman. Due to his face, the stranger in front of him was much larger than he was, though a test of strength could not have been determined at that time. Clearing his throat, he spoke clearly, "What is your name?" the Hervok found no need to ask the boy what his intentions were, it would be a waste of both of their breaths to even think to ask or answer the question when the inclement weather that surrounded them practically begged for the boy to gain entry into Whisper Caverns.