For the longest time Askan feared things wouldn't get better, that he'd forever be stuck in limbo, an awful purgatory of one mistake after another. But things were getting better, Drestig was back and in good health, and from what Askan could tell his trip had gone well. Jessie seemed a little more mellow with her mate by her side, so much so that their punishments had more or less been lifted by this point. He wasn't sure whether it was the Old Man's doing or what, but frankly he was just relieved things were falling back into place, going back to the way they used to be.
Ever since they field had been struck by a pair of fiendish thieves, Askan had increased his patrols and had become evermore vigilant of the comings and goings of his fellow pack mates. It'd be shit awful luck if someone else tried to sneak into their lands again, but nonetheless Askan was careful. He marked the borders thoroughly, kicking about his scent before he embarked off into the Lowlands , intent to see if there was anything edible about.
Several hours passed and the tundra seemed the same as ever. Which was good, he supposed. No strange scents, no weird loners loitering about or looking suspicious. In fact, everything seemed in order and best of all, uneventful. Still, he'd at least hoped to stumble upon some old tracks, anything that would give him a general idea of where they local herds roamed.
Alas, it seemed not to be. Huffing in annoyance, Askan kicked at a pebble on the ground and watched it bound down the hill. His gaze followed the stone as it rolled further and further along, picking up speed and- wow it had actually gotten quite a bit of air. Like he'd punted it with all of his might. He hurried down the slope, eager to see where it landed only to see-just in time- it connect with a poor innocent white wolf who just happened to be standing there in the wrong place, at the wrong time.
Whoops.
It took him longer to admit, but as he slowed to a trot it dawned on him just who he'd hurled a stone at. Lachesis. You know, the not so bad know it all of Hearthwood River?
Oh no. Askan was the worst. This would be the end of the River/Field alliance. Jessie was going to eat his gonads for sure this time.
"Ah ummm...Sorry! I swear I didn't mean to! Didn't see you there, promise!" His apology was lame at best, but an attempt was made.