"It's all the same to us, captain," Marod responded to Lorag. "It's in all of our interests for now to leave the past alone."

The friendly atmosphere fell sharply serious with Meesei's next order of business. She said what had been at the backs of all their heads, to varying degrees.

The eyes of the pack turned down. Janius was the first to speak, itching at the back of his neck. "I suppose it would be nice to visit our families one last time. My family, Sabine's, Ahnasha's, Fendros'...Maybe even yours, Kaleeth?"

Fendros stayed quietly frowning. The question of his father was unspoken but obvious. Fortunately for him, it was not the only unresolved matter.

"Perhaps..." Janius cleared his throat. "If we might speak as a pack, in private?"

Lunise and Marod did not take long to respectfully shuffle out of the meeting room.

"Lorag?" Janius resumed. He proceeded cautiously. "Ever thought about, uh...What that kid in Cheydinhal might be up to?"