once more unto the breach

The uncertainty was apparent, and Vali had no issue listening to him as he spoke. Sadness flashed in her own eyes - and she glanced away briefly, before sighing and returning to focus on him. "Greetings, Kassander, Rommel." Was the mouse-like creature not of their number then? That was fine with her. It was too small for her to bother to try catching it, too, and the action could look hostile to Kassander and his companion.

"Bass... Bass left late last season. He went in search of missing pups of the pack. He... hasn't returned yet. He asked me to hold the pack until then." She paused, staring at Kassander. He seemed so true, and so uncertain; should she also admit this next part? ... She might as well. "It seemed I was the only one who he had told. Most of the pack and his closest friends left Abaven the moment they heard of his journey, despite his intent to return. He hadn't told his children, either, despite taking one of them with him. One of his daughters, Sparrow, requested alphaship of the pack when I offered it to Bass' remaining children. She is supposed to become alpha soon - whenever she feels she is ready.... with that in mind, do you still want to join Abaven?"