Meka went over to Tuulikki and the two lowered their heads in a silent mourning for Beku. Aesop, Omara, and Flint soon joined them, whimpering softly. Likoo walked over toward Meka, but kept a respectful distance from the family. Steele dipped his head for a moment out of respect, and then turned when he saw Castoph, Hawk and Kalii come into the area. For the first time, he noticed that all the other wolves were awake and gathering in a small circle. They seemed lost rather than free. Steele stepped up on nearby boulder.
"Everyone, you are free from Bane and Phoenix now. You may do as you please. None of you have to stay if you do not want to," Steele announced. Nikka, who was nearest, stepped forward with lowered ears.
"I will stay, but we need a leader," Nikka said with a hopeful look at Steele. Steele smiled softly and nodded.
"Yes, you are right, you do all need a leader, but it is not me," Steele said. Some of the wolves gasped softly and began to whisper anxiously amongst themselves. Kalii stepped forward and gently nudged Steele off the boulder.
"Everyone, listen to me. I know who our leader should be. He is the one who planned this. He is the one who came here to save us. His name is Castoph," Kalii announced confidently. Castoph flicked his ears then walked up to Kalii's side. Without a word, Castoph nodded to the wolves and lifted his head in a howl. They soon all joined him.
Steele dipped his head slightly to Castoph.
"Who would have known you would save a pack and become an alpha," Steele said with a slight chuckle. Castoph grinned softly and nodded.
"We have both come a long way. I am happy to have had your help in this. You and your family are welcome back anytime," Castoph said. Steele nodded then glanced over at Aleu and his children.
"Perhaps one day we will visit you, Castoph," Steele said. Castoph chuckled softly as Kalii walked over and gently nuzzled his cheek. Castoph dipped his head to Steele then turned to his family. Steele smiled then walked over to Aleu. Aleu tilted her head.
"You think Tuulikki and her children will be alright?" Aleu asked softly. Steele glanced over in their direction. Although Beku was gone, Tuulikki was fairing alright. She was quiet, but she still kept herself together for the most part. Steele then spotted Meka and Likoo walking over. Meka licked Tuulikki's forehead softly, much like an alpha would to comfort a lower ranking member of the pack.
"I believe she will be better in time. Meka's strong and will look after them just as her brother did," Steele said. Aleu nodded then barked softly. Coal, Freya, Teagan and Heather walked over wagging their tails.
"Ready to go home?" Aleu asked. The four young canines nodded and smiled. With that, Steele, Aleu and their family headed back on the journey home. Peace was restored and all was well once more.