Season's Wolves
North Star's paws ached as she made her way back from exploring. With a pained grunt she collapsed by her den.
"North Star?" Pearl, clearly nervous, avoided eye contact even as she addressed her leader.
"Yes Pearl?"
"Well I've been meaning to talk to you. Um…. It might be time to look for an heir. Not that your not still young but-"
"It's all right Pearl, I've known this was coming. Gather the youngest of the clan one of them shall succeed me."
With a respectful nod Pearl raced off to fulfill her orders. North Star huffed slightly, the youth had so much more energy now. Passing into the endless hunting ground would be a welcome change.
…
Pearl returned the next day panting happily. "North Star I gathered many of the candidates into the temporary den. All are under six years old and are at most the third generation."
"Thank you, Pearl I shall spend what time I have left choosing my successor."
…
North Star sat next to the new comer Nova Lynx as she watched the pup lessons.
"How are you liking this pack?"
"Oh I love it here North!"
North turned her head at Nova's sigh.
"What's on your mind?"
"I do love it here but… I miss exploring. Pearl, Solstice, and the pups have all asked me to stay and for the most part I want to."
"But you also want to leave."
Nova nodded solemnly. "I don't want to leave forever. I just sometimes like the solitude."
"Nova would you consider taking my place?"
"North!" Nova looked shocked.
"I explore and fish in solitude, but I have a permanent place here. What I'm asking isn't easy. I've seen a lot of other wolves come and go. It can get lonely but I've also enjoyed great adventures because of it." The younger wolf seemed frozen in shock. "Scout for a bit and think on it."
North pushed herself up and trodded down to the river needing some time to think herself.
...
North caught sight of Nova near the bog and padded out to meet her.
North begin easing down beside her. "Nova-"
"I've decided North Star. If you are certain, I would be honored to be your successor."
North nodded looking a little lost in thought. After a moment she tipped her head back and released a long mournful howl. The wolves all paused the oldest recognizing the meaningful sound. The pups all turned to the grown-ups confused. With a sad look Pearl joined in. Soon the entire pack howled their goodbye. North turned and looked at Nova.
"In two moons I will leave for the sky grounds, then the pack shall turn to you as the new Queen." Raising her voice North Star turned, "Nova Lynx I support your new rule."
Pearl and Solstice began the next howl. This one a welcome of Nova Lynx.
