“Indeed, the world would be a more orderly place if it could be ruled through logic alone.” Meesei commented. “But regardless, I can respect your reasoning. I merely needed to know it. There may not be a perfect choice for this situation, but if Vera is as receptive to the counsel of her advisers as you say, then she may be the most well-rounded option. There is also the matter of other lieutenants to consider. The clan has lost two of its leaders in this whole sordid affair. Vera will be receiving the role of alpha, but that leaves the clan with two less lieutenants than before. I would advise against allowing yourselves to become overwhelmed with responsibilities, so others will need to rise to fill those roles and help shoulder the burden. But, we should rejoin the others before discussing that topic.”

With that, Meesei rose from her seat and prompted Darahil to follow her back into the hallway. Vera and Oswall were silent when she stepped out of the room, though she could only guess at what they had been thinking or speaking about. Both of them had their attention raptly on Meesei as she approached the pair, so she wasted no time in giving them the answer they were waiting for. “With Darahil’s counsel, Oswall’s recommendation, and my own observations, I believe that you, Vera, are the one who is best-suited to take on the responsibilities of being the alpha of this clan. You have considerable experience in handling the clan’s internal affairs, and a willingness to heed the advice of your peers. Jerrick obviously considered you to be a woman of good character, and I believe it is you who will most likely be able to unite the fractured groups that make up this clan. With this appointment, however, I also have a warning. The years to come will not be like those of the past. We are entering into a war for our survival, and the entirety of the clan will have to dedicate itself to the effort. Not all will fight, but all will play some role in the struggle. It will be a significant transition for the clan, and it will be your responsibility to facilitate it. It will not be easy, but you have your advisers and will not be taking on the burden alone. I can say that, unless lord Hircine commands me otherwise, I will be remaining here with my pack for quite some time.”