∞∞∞


    Nameless! A quiet voice intruded upon his mind. Each of the Quaelyne had a different way of “speaking” when they sent their thoughts into his mind, and he had grown to know the voices of each member of the tribe. The voice that was breaking into his thoughts now was not any of them, but he had a feeling he knew who it was simply based on its youthful exuberance.


    I did ... The thought cut out suddenly.


    Focus, Dauntless’s thoughts came; the boy realized that he was now being included into Troublefinder’s lesson. If you lose focus even a little, he will not hear your message.


    Can…you…hear…me?


    Yes! So now I can help too if the angry one gets loose again!


    I think you may need quite a bit more practice before you want to try to tousle with that one. Dauntless said, his thoughts conveying the seriousness of the situation. What we did to help him was extremely dangerous. We could have all been consumed.


    He would never let that happen! Troublefinder said, plopping onto his backside, worn out by the little bit of communication he had accomplished.


    That was our thought as well, and the only reason your mother let us try. If it wasn’t for your friend’s resistance, we would not have won that battle.


    Well, that was unexpected, Dauntless said as he let out a long breath.


    His name is not mine to share, but it seems we have been summoned to a gathering. Apparently there are more of your people than just you in the forest.


    If I am found to be weak or caught unaware, I might lose my position as mate to the leader of the tribe. Dauntless let it be known how he felt about such a thing occurring.


    It would be her right, and if I am not the strongest male to give her pups I would not deserve the position.


    We have been lucky to find each other, Dauntless said, hedging around the idea. I like to think that if I lost it would make her sad for a time. He shook his head, turning to Troublefinder and giving him a soft swat with his large paw. Now is not the time for such thoughts, however. We must prepare the village for our absence and await your mother’s return.


    Dauntless seems to think we should take you boys with us to the gathering. Relentless sent as she came into view.


    It is going to be a learning trip though! Dauntless sent, trying to sound stern, but some of the joy he had at seeing the boys so excited leaked through.


    Somehow one stupid boy following me around has suddenly turned into three. Relentless sent without malice. Alright, let’s go. The nearest tribe is several days journey, and the gathering spot is several days beyond that.


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