Maksim’s condition was a lot worse than the healer had anticipated. It was nothing he couldn’t handle—but he couldn’t handle it while temporarily standing in Maksim’s place. It wasn’t something like a minor infection, where Lachesis was able to give him the necessary herbs as needed and was able to leave him to rest. No—this was far more serious. It worried the ghost being away from the green-eyed leader’s side for too long. How was he supposed to lead a pack and take care of their actual leader at the same time? This was Maksim’s pack; it was nothing without him. Lachesis couldn’t let anything happen to him. He needed to focus all of his attention on ensuring that Mak healed quickly and without any problems.
It was while these thoughts were plaguing him as he re-dressed Maksim’s wound that a brilliant idea came to mind. Before initiating his plan XIX had quickly run it by Mak in his medicated state (which may not have been the best idea, but it would work out in the end). It was settled—he would seek out Karpos. While it may not be ideal to have a wolf so young take the position of leader, it was temporary, and it would also be beneficial for the Slayer. He had been thinking about leaving Hearthwood eventually to create his own chapter with Relic Lore; this would give him the opportunity to see if he was ready. Lachesis had complete faith in his young nephew; he was more than capable and he had grown quite level-headed as he left his traumatic childhood behind.
The fresh air was welcomed as he left his den behind, his pear-coloured eyes squinting against the morning light. He stepped away from his den to seek out a quiet spot along the river that cut through their territory, both his head and shoulders weighted down as he folded his hindquarters against the ground. Without delay, he threw back his head, calling for his nephew. We need to talk, he called, hoping that the shadow was nearby. Leaving Maksim, even for a few moments, worried him.
stick with those who stick with you