don't worry about me the heart is suppose to bleed
The grin brought Renier from his thoughts for a moment. It was hard not to see the a young boy, tackling another mountain. He felt both proud, even if a little torn. Yet, the Lyall smiled back sincerely.
"You have earned it in your actions Sven. You have taken great care of your sister, and have always been quick to answer when I or anyone else needed you. You have ambition, like your grandmother. You won't sit idly by and let others do the work. I know you'll do what needs to be done." Truly, he preferred Sven have it than Nicolo. At least he would make the effort for the pack. Even if Renier thought they would never agree on what was really best.
The young wolf's surprise was evident by the sudden change of subject. Did he really think Renier could fully celebrate under the circumstances? Sven had stated his reason, but he did not believe it was his only one. If things would have turned out differently would he have told him well done, well deserved in turn? Spoken or not, a challenge of leadership was a clear sign change was wanted. It was hard not to take it personally, especially with other events.
A slow sigh pulled from his lips, and his eyes dropped for a moment. He really wanted to be the joyful mentor, and assure the others of this new reign. He did not feel he knew how, or if he could.
"I'm sorry. My mind is running in several directions. I didn't notice them in the territory when I arrived and I'm not sure where they headed. I can't help think how her parents must fear the worst." Briefly, he lifted his eyes to a silver gaze. Maybe it wasn't a good enough reason. Renier had others for his eagerness, his sudden loss of rank pushing things forward. He might as well get it out now.
"If you wish to talk, it would be better now. I plan on traveling with them, and will not make a quick return. Even if you had not challenged me did you think I'd really want to sit by and take care of Nicolo's pups? Why I know Enoki is thrilled and she deserves to be a mother, I have still found little reason to like the man who is suppose to be their father." He still wanted to sink his teeth into that damned imbecile. Give him a reason not to be able. Didn't it bother anyone else he hadn't attended Elettra's burial? Or even paid much acknowledge to the rest of them? Would it bother Sven now he was leader, that he had broken pack law?
No, by spring Renier would be severely outnumbered, and that was reason enough. "You don't need me. Especially as the Ridge will continue its legacy with Archers." Just like you wanted. My absence isn't going to be missed.