unopposed thoughts that stood too long

Recluse gave her a nod of understanding. She of all wolves could understand the sting of early loss. Venom didn’t know the full story of Recluse’s upbringing but her connection to Deathbelle was plenty of words unspoken. It was quite obvious Recluse was not aware of the place of Archon’s death. She would have figured Belle told her, but it wouldn’t surprise the daughter if her mother had a harder time talking about the departed man.

Venom was slightly surprised when her confession and openness were reciprocated by her cousin. The words struck a dark chord with Venom, and she found herself appreciating the older Klein. The Empress simply nodded at her words despite the way they hit her. This wasn’t the time or place to be losing herself in melancholy and she was glad for Recluse’s words. There was business to attend to. "No.” It was not the mountains she had quarrel with. Nor Recluse.

"I came to let you know that Hattori has left me,” That wasn’t pertinent to Recluse’s alpha career though. "He’s started his own pack within Auster. I have decided to wash my paws of him, but you are free to do as you will without any ire from me.”

"Venom"