Mender's Tale

by The Rhombus

Based upon a roleplay with Historian1912 and set in the Seven Hunters continuity. Mender has the reputation as being the best healer in the Mysterious Beyond, helping all who require it, but that was not always the case. Follow Mender as she recalls how a lowly fastbiter eventually found her place in life once she met a most unusual pack. This is Mender's Tale.

17. Chapter 15: Challenges

-v-

Chapter 15: Challenges

"The challenges in the cadet program are not meant are not meant to find the worthy; they are meant to help the worth find themselves."

Cadet training manual,

Annex B

---

Several years ago:

"I'm confused… how did you know that they were talking about pack leader stuff? Thud just asked about our pack following his, and I already knew about that." Violet ran the conversation in her head, but just couldn't make sense of it. What did she miss? Was it a smell thing?

You're problematically perceptive, Violet, Tracker thought with a mixture of frustration and pride, You used to be so easy to distract. "Do you really want to know or are you just bored?" Here goes my last strategy before I have to tell her.

Violet looked down for a moment. I have learned how to heal people.. why can't I learn this? She had been accustomed to being treated in a protected way during her life, but now that she had a taste of responsibility she felt more than a tinge of guilt. It had only been days ago that she had made her first kill and obtained the title of 'adult'; now she was more than a little self-conscious about not acting like an adult.

"I… really want to know," Violet began in an almost sad voice, "I'm an adult now and I need to start acting like it. I need to stop being so ignorant!" there was a tinge of anger in that last sentence. Anger at her own inability to smell what others could smell and understand what others could understand. She could smell a hint of her own anger even with her reduced sense of smell. The slightest hint of what Tracker must have smelled in that moment.

"Violet, calm down. You haven't been an adult for even a full cycle of the Night Circle. It takes time to learn things. Dodger explained a few things to me since I got my kill, and I still don't understand everything. I'm still learning things just as you are. You're actually learning much faster than I ever did." Tracker did her best to sound calm and keep herself even. I had to relearn a few things after Calin, too. There's something very problematic about not wanting anyone to touch you or even be near you and yet hate to not have someone where you can see and smell them.

Violet took a deep breath as she thought back to her healer training. You have to not know things if you are to learn things, because if you already knew things then you would already know them. Ruby's words of wisdom where just as true now as they were then.

"Okay, Tracker. Can you teach me, please?" she asked as she lowered her head in a respectful manner.

"What do you want to know?" Tracker asked after acknowledging her friend's show of respect. I can't just explain what Dodger, Seeker, and Thud were talking about. That's only an example, and not a very good one. Too tricky.

Violet thought for a moment, "How did you know that Thud was mentioning something that was only meant for the pack leaders? Was it a smell or some kind of gesture?"

Violet one, Tracker zero. "It was the exact words used," Tracker said, sighing in resignation. This isn't going to be easy, Violet.

Violet tried to think back to the conversation...

Thud nodded at Littlefoot as he began his proposal, "I have a pack of three, but we are quite experienced in navigating the Barrens. It would be my pleasure for you two," he gestured at Dodger and Tracker, "...and Violet if she wishes, to follow my pack through the barrens. There is some lush land near the Land of Many Waters that could be claimed with a sufficiently strong challenge. And that way all of you would be close enough to your allies to help them if the need should arise, or to be helped by them if you are in trouble. It would give you a good start."

She rubbed her head. There was nothing that she could see that was special there. Except…

"Thud mentioned me… he said 'and Violet if she wishes…' does he… was he saying something about me?" Thud had talked to her the previous night and this made alarm bells go off in the fastbiter's mind. Was she missing something, "Thud… um… did talk to me last night."

Why do I get the feeling I should be worried here? This is not where I was planning on going with this. "What exactly did you talk about?" Tracker asked. As much as she tried to avoid it, it sounded far too accusatory to Tracker's own ears. She could only imagine what Violet heard.

"A lot of stuff… he...um… figured out about my sniffer," Violet began, "And he talked about how his brother had the same problem."

"That all?" Tracker prodded. Interesting information, but I'm looking for bigger problems.

Violet cringed a little, "...I never knew what happened to others like me until he told me. Did… did anyone try to tell Mom or Dad to get rid of me?"

"Violet, if your father was anything like Dodger, anyone stupid enough to even look at you wrong would be dead before they hit the ground." I'm going to have a talk with Thud after this. It might end up involving Orange Death. What made you think telling Violet this was even remotely a good idea, Thud? Have you gone senile?

Violet nodded, "I just… didn't know that was what happened. Thud mentioned how glad he was to see that I was doing well.. and he said that my packmates must love me a lot," she smiled, "I just felt sorry for Thud, it seemed like he wondered how his brother would have grown up."

She shook her head, "And then Taunt interrupted us to tell his Dad that Seeker wanted to talk to him, before Thud told me that he didn't blame me for trying to attack Leap… he said that it was an understandable reaction under the circumstances," she smiled meekly, "Sorry, I'm rambling, aren't I?"

"That's quite a conversation, Violet," Tracker said. Well, that was quite different from what I was worried about. "You said something earlier about wanting to tell me something you told Haven and about us finding her. What was that?" Tracker was actually a bit concerned, and her face showed it.

Violet hesitated, "Um… well it involved a joke that Taunt said when he interrupted Thud. He joked and said that his Dad wasn't talking to me… he was flirting with me."

"I hope Stern Claw doesn't mind finding a new mate, because Taunt isn't going to live much longer," Tracker grumbled, quickening her pace a bit. Of all of Violet's insecurities to attack, why that one?

Violet sighed, "I talked to Haven about that and she told me a bit more about Taunt. He had no idea about my parents… and humor is how he copes with his own problems," she shook her head, "...he had to be helped out of his own shell when he hatched and was constantly sick. It was only his humor that kept him going despite everything else."

"Violet, etiquette lesson. Do you think I would like everyone knowing about my problems?" Tracker asked irritatedly. I know we taught you better… "Particularly with Calin?" she hissed too low for anyone but Violet to hear.

Violet felt utterly dejected at Tracker's swift talking down, "But… but Haven shared the information with me. She wanted me to know why he did things the way he did… if she told me then why was it wrong that I told you?" she asked pitifully, "I don't understand… I just don't want you to be angry at Taunt when I know why he does what he does."

Tracker deliberately softened her features. As much as she doesn't want to be, I need to remember just how much of a kid Violet really is. And that she usually has good intentions. "Violet, I get what you meant to do. I know you mean well… but Haven told that story to you, not to me. You were not told that you could pass that story along. It would hurt Taunt if everyone knew. You weren't happy when everyone found out about your smell-blindness, were you? Had you not hurt your head, would you have told anyone you were smell-blind?" Tracker hated to go there, but she wanted Violet to understand on a personal level.

Violet looked down, "I… I guess I should have just told you that Taunt had his reasons for being the way he is then? That way I wouldn't have wronged him?"

"That would have been better, yes," Tracker said. Let's get away from this. "Do you remember what Thud was saying to Dodger earlier?"

Violet thought back to the conversation again…

Thud then coughed awkwardly. "If the pack wishes to remain as it is now then that is what my pack can do for you."

Violent blinked, "If the pack wishes to remain as it is now… what did he mean about that?"

"If we wish, he'll help us secure a territory. It would be back to just us three, assuming you want to keep following Dodger and me around. There was also an unsaid implication. Can you figure out what it is?" It's not like she can hurt anything here if she gets mad, Tracker thought, Let's see how she does.

"Well… he did talk to me last night…" Violet began, "Does… does he want me to join his pack? If so then why didn't he ask me?"

"Very good, Violet. You're on the right path. He was asking you, along with the rest of us. If we wanted we could join his pack. All three of us," Tracker explained.

Violet nodded slowly, "He knows that you and Dodger will go together, obviously. But why did he mention me specifically earlier? If I went to his pack that would only leave you and Dodger… That… that would be too dangerous!"

"Could be. You were mentioned separately because you get to make your own choice. I'm going to do whatever Dodger decides to do, whether that's join Thud's pack or remain on our own. We'll be discussing it, of course, but Dodger's going to call it his decision even if I talked him into doing something stupid that he was wholeheartedly against, assuming I could do that. You have to decide who you want to stay with," Tracker replied. Choose wisely, Violet.

Violet looked down, "I… I have learned so much here… and Thud is nice… but I don't want to lose either of you," she nearly whined, "But… but I know both of you need to be with someone… a pack of two is too small."

"Violet, you decide what is best for you. Dodger and I will take care of ourselves. I don't want you to leave. Far from it. But if you want to stay with Dodger and me I don't want it to be because you're worried about us. Who knows, we might end up joining Thud's pack. If you wish to stay here I know you'll be among friends. If you wish to go with us, you're more than welcome. If you want to go with Thud, he'll be more than happy to have you come along. Do what's best for you. You're an adult now, Violet. I can't make the choice for you. Neither can your brother." Tracker was doing her best to stay neutral, but she really didn't want Violet to leave.

Violet nodded, "If we stayed together then we could always come back during the Wet Times, couldn't we? We would just need to give them a peace offering… so… I wouldn't have to say goodbye to them forever."

"You wouldn't. Nor would you have to say goodbye to me and Dodger forever if you stayed," Tracker said carefully, "You don't have to decide right now. Just be thinking about it. We've probably only got a few days to decide. I don't think they'd be telling us this if we had several cycles of the Night Circle to think about it."

Violet grew silent for several moment as the possibilities echoed in her mind. It was a daunting prospect. She had never been in a pack that wasn't family, which was an oddity amongst sharpteeth, and she had come to the age of independence for most of her kind. Now that she had her first taste of adulthood the desire to strike off into a new pack was overwhelming. It was a confusing torrent of emotions.

"Hey, are you two alright?" Taunt's concerned voice echoed from some distance away. He only saw Tracker from behind, but Violet's deeply conflicted face was clearly within his view.

Violet and Tracker's actions were more instinct than conscious thought. Violet rushed forward and to the side while Tracker spun around. Both ended up in defensive stances, searching for threats.

Taunt immediately raised his arms in a placative gesture, "Easy, girls… I just wanted to make sure that you both were okay." He suppressed any joke that he may have had about their jumpiness. He was concerned about their safety right now more than anything. What could have spooked them so badly?

"We're fine," Tracker replied, "Did you need something, Taunt?" Calm down. Control your breathing. You're not under attack. You'd be dead if you were. Stupid. Stupid. Stupid. I should have been paying more attention to what was going on around me. It's not like this place can't be invaded. That's how I ended up here in the first place. To her side Violet was gasping for air, having nearly had a panic attack.

Taunt shook his head, "No I just smelled fear in the wind and wanted to make sure everyone was alright," he hesitated when he saw Violet's reaction, "If you girls ever need any help just let any of us know, alright?" His voice was almost pleading. He remembered the aftermath of when Tracker gave her false alert, and he hoped that this was not another situation of something from her tortured past coming back to haunt them.

"Alright," Violet replied, trying to cover up her mistake, "We were just talking." Good thing you didn't show up when we were talking about you. Yikes.

"We're fine, Taunt. Really," Tracker said, "Nothing's wrong."

Knowing that he was not getting the whole story, Taunt still remained concerned for the two females, but he nodded nonetheless and retreated back to where he was hunting for ground fuzzies. He figured if there was a problem that they would let him or someone else know. Or so he hoped.

The girls were again alone with their thoughts.

---

Hanging Rock, present day:

Cynnil forced herself to focus her gaze on the two fastrunners in front of her as opposed to Mender and Orchid's nearly petrified form. Despite the fact that she could read Orchid's intentions in his mannerisms and the few words that carried to her location, she was not about to give away that she knew his secret.

You have more self-doubt than anyone I have ever seen, Orchid. Mender then appeared in her thoughts. Well, almost anyone. If you want to join the pack then prove to me that you are willing to put those doubts aside.

"I was nervous, too," Mender told Orchid, seeing his hesitation, "Remember, you've already done the hard part."

Cynnil smirked as Arial looked up from her meal. "What are they talking about?"

"They're going to miss their fish. Well, more fish for us!" Nahoda joked, but he looked back as well. Cynnil put a hand on his beak before he could speak to the wayward fastrunner, however.

No. This he would have to do on his own. Or, at least with only the assistance of Mender.

"You've got nothing to be afraid of, Orchid. Waiting isn't going to make you feel any better."

The fastrunner sighed, and Cynnil could almost see his nod in her head. "Yeah… let's get this over with."

Now both Arial and Nahoda were staring at the hidden runner. Their glares communicating one message loud and clear. What is going on here, Cynnil?

The hidden runner did not answer except to put a digit next to her beak in a 'remain silent' gesture. This would have to play itself out.

"Um…" Orchid was suddenly hesitant despite never having trouble speaking his mind before. "...Cynnil, ma'am?"

About time.

The hidden runner turned around with deliberate slowness as she tilted her head in a gesture of questioning. Congratulations, Orchid, you used my name. Now let's see you use complete sentences. "Hmmm?"

Mender shot Cynnil an irritated look before forcing her expression back to neutral. While not exactly making this harder, the pack leader wasn't exactly making things easier, either.

Patience, Mender.

"I… you are allowing us to go with your pack until we get to our sister's pack. And I am very grateful for that… but… um..."

Cynnil waited patiently.

"Would you be open to having another member when you leave her pack's lands?"

Nahoda nearly choked on his fish as Arial beat on his back with a bit more force than necessary to stop his distress. Buse also looked at the fastrunner as if he had grown a second tail. Only two pack members did not look surprised.

Mender and Arial.

Cynnil smiled and raised the young male's beak to stop his respectful bow and allow him to see her eye to eye. "I am open to that, young one. Do you have anyone in mind?"

This time Mender didn't bother hiding her displeasure, openly glaring at Cynnil.

As Orchid opened his mouth to speak Cynnil merely laughed. "It's alright, Orchid. I was testing your self-confidence and you passed with some assistance." She smirked at Mender's glare. "What have you told him of what it takes to join a pack, Mender? It is a bit different between our kinds."

"I told him that he has to prove himself. I just didn't explain how..." Mender answered, now realizing that she really didn't know how to have Orchid prove himself.

"Ah, now that is the rub, isn't it? In hidden runner packs one generally needs to be proven trustworthy by prior deeds or mating, and then prove to be useful as a scout, tracker, or breeder." Cynnil then gestured at Mender. "Your kind does it differently, however."

"Fastbiters complete some kind of challenge set by the pack leader," Mender explained, "I didn't really have one myself. Never really asked why."

"Your pack did not challenge you because you had been around long enough to prove reliable, and you would not have been able to hide deceit," Cynnil responded, "Besides, you remember what Seeker said in the song… And on the day you saved Leap, I knew that my pack was safe to keep; in your hands many rely, lest many survivors would have died."

Orchid looked at Mender with confusion. "What?"

Mender sighed. "That may be a song for another time."

"If you pass your challenge then you will have plenty of time to hear it," Cynnil added.

Orchid suddenly looked smaller. "So… I need to go through the same thing that a fastbiter does?"

It was now that Buse's recovery from his shock allowed him to verbalize his thoughts for better or worse. "Well it isn't like we can have you join the hidden runner way and join through ties of blood. I don't think Cynnil is your type."

Mender groaned. "I really hope you and Taunt never meet." She then realized where they were going once they were done here. "Don't get any ideas from him."

Cynnil, well accustomed to Buse's idea of wit, merely rolled her eyes. "Fastbiters do this to prove the loyalty of those who are unknown, but you are known, Orchid. If it was just a matter of loyalty then I would allow you to join."

Orchid tilted his head. "What else is there?"

"Survival." Cynill answered as she gestured at the distant mountains. "A pack is only as strong as its weakest member. You will be safe in your sister's lands, but if you join with us then you will not be in a land of safety. It is one thing to be good enough to survive on your own through your training, but we need to know that you have what it takes to help the pack when things get rough. That is something else entirely."

Orchid sucked in a deep breath. "Whatever it is I accept your challenge. Please just give me a chance."

Nahoda hesitantly stepped forward. "Where we are going sounds like a pretty safe place. Why do you want to leave? It isn't like Arial and I are going to chase you off."

"He wants to see the world and find his own place in it."

Orchid turned his head as Arial spoke. A kind beak-smile appearing on her face.

"Just remember if things don't work out that you are welcome with us."

Orchid opened his beak to speak, but words refused to escape. Nahoda's nod confirmed his feelings on this as well. In the face of such a welcome he almost felt guilty seeking to strike off on his own.

But the drive remained. The drive to make his own life. To find his own path.

To be his own person.

"A challenge it is then." Cynnil spoke, sending everyone's gaze in her direction. "And I do believe that I have just the challenge for you. If you want to join the pack then you must face your deepest weaknesses and overcome them through your own strengths."

Orchid rubbed his beak in confusion. "And what are those?"

Cynnil smiled. "Finding those, my dear fastrunner, will be part of the challenge."

Orchid resisted the urge to shiver at the smiles that now appeared on the faces of the two females. Little did he know that Mender's smile was one of remembrance.

---

The past:

To say that Dodger's day was ruined would probably be an understatement. Listening to Littlefoot and Thud talk was not at all a problem for him. Thinking about what they said, however, had nearly sent him into a panic.

What am I supposed to do about Violet? Dodger wondered for probably the tenth time, I really need to know what she wants if I'm going to make a decision myself. No matter how much that decision might hurt. The very idea of his sister leaving him, of no longer being close enough for him to protect, disturbed Dodger immensely. If she wishes to stay with Seeker's pack, she might not be able to stay all that long. What is she supposed to do if she's asked to leave? He knew from his parents' warnings that it would be dangerous for unattached fastbiters to be anywhere near nesting pairs. While granting him now useful information, Dodger was sometimes disturbed by how much his father considered appropriate for a child that had seen only nine Cold Times to know, though he suspected that it might have something to do with only one of his children managing to survive to adulthood.

If she wants to stay with Thud, which, honestly, would obligate me to make the same choice, I'll need to make sure to talk to Thud a bit about potential problems. I should probably do that with Seeker's pack as well, just in case. Maybe I should find Taunt while I'm out here. He nearly caused a problem by accident…

Dodger felt like he was going to lose his mind. There seemed so much to do and so little time to do it in. He'd spent his entire life protecting his sister. Now he was trying to figure out how to do that even when he wasn't present. If this is what it's like seeing your kids leave, I'm not going to survive them turning twelve. Violet's about to cause me a panic attack, and she's not even my daughter. Now someone just needs to tell my head to stop acting like she is.

The blue fastbiter did his best to calm himself. Okay, so, Violet aside, what should Tracker and I do? If she doesn't want to stay with us, I'm going to have to insist we join Thud's group regardless of what Tracker might want. I'm not putting her in danger just to remain a pack leader. If Violet wants to stay with me and Tracker, I guess we'll just have to talk it over. I can't figure this out by myself. Feeling a bit more in control, Dodger set out to find the rest of his pack. Hopefully finding them will be more straightforward than what I've been thinking lately. Ugh. Who would actually want to be a pack leader?

---

Taunt grabbed another ground fuzzy through a fresh hole that he had dug through its nest. Despite the fact that ground fuzzies were little more than appetizers to him at his age, he still enjoyed their taste, and the challenge of catching the fast mammals.

Dodger was having to deal with his own challenge. If Violet ever finds out I managed to get myself a bit turned around she's never going to let me hear the end of it. Taking a look around and spotting Taunt, he decided that his sister was the least of his worries for the moment. Oh, you've got to be joking. I just had to end up close to Taunt while lost. Great… So, should I ask for help or try to disappear before he notices me?

Taunt looked up as he caught a rather familiar scent on the wind. Ah, Dodger. I wonder what he is up to… That was when he saw Dodger's expression, He looks like Violet usually does. What has spooked him, I wonder? All thoughts of pestering the ally was gone, as he put one of his latest catches away.

"Are you alright, Dodger? You look like you just saw two spiketails mating."

"Apparently you've never run into a mated pair of two-footers that don't appreciate you being anywhere near their nest," Dodger muttered before speaking loud enough to answer Taunt. Spiketails mating isn't nearly as disturbing after that experience. Scouting isn't always safe. "I'm actually a bit turned around," Dodger admitted reluctantly.

Taunt gave a slight tail-smile as he nodded respectfully in the other's direction, "Where would you like to go, Dodger?"

"I'm just trying to find my packmates." I have no clue where they are.

Taunt hesitated for a moment. Both Violet and Tracker looked utterly spooked earlier… I bet that all of this is related. Did they piss off Seeker or something? "Um… alright. I actually just talked to them a little while ago…" he debated whether to mention how agitated that they seemed, but decided against it, "...they went that way as far as I can tell. That is where their scent trail goes. I lost track of them after I stopped to make sure they were alright."

"Was something wrong?" Dodger asked, unable to keep the worry out of his voice.

Taunt hesitated, shit… "They said that everything was alright, but… they looked a little concerned to me, so I decided to check on them." Taunt reflected that this was probably one of the biggest understatements that he had said in many days.

"Find out anything?" Dodger asked. If you're not telling me something, we're going to have a problem.

Taunt saw the expression on Dodger's face and took a deep breath, "No… but… they did look very concerned… they kind of went defensive when I asked them the question," he then tilted his head at the other fastbiter, "Are you sure everything is alright, Dodger? I can't help unless people want me to help." Normally such a reaction would have made the fastbiter feel like he was neglecting his duties in adding a bit of humor to his packmates' lives, but this all changed when they were in danger. At this point he suspected that something major was underfoot.

"Can I trust you to keep your mouth shut?" Dodger asked bluntly and probably more harshly than he needed to. You haven't shown that much control over your words, Taunt. Can I trust you to be quiet until Seeker tells your whole pack?

Taunt froze and looked at his clawed hand as if he were considering something. Then, with a swift movement he nipped at it, drawing a very small amount of blood, "I give you my vow. Only my vow to my leader and pack exceed this," he then offered his hand, "I cannot promise that I won't tell my pack leader if the pack is threatened, but otherwise my mouth will stay shut." the hand continued to be offered, as if Taunt were waiting for something.

Dodger copied the gesture, nicking himself before clasping Taunt's hand. Funny how both times I've done this involved my sister. "Tracker and Violet might've figured it out already, but Seeker pretty much told me that my pack needs to leave when Thud's does. Hopefully that's what's bothering them."

Taunt nodded, "So I take it that…" he hesitated for a moment, "And I mean no disrespect, but I take it that there is also the matter of where Violet wants to go?" It was a leap of deduction, but one that Taunt felt relatively comfortable in making.

"You say it like she's a problem," Dodger responded, a bit of an edge to his voice.

Taunt held the insult that threatened to leave his tongue, "It may be hard for you to believe, sir," the 'sir' had an edge to it as well, "But my jokes are not the sum total of my character. They are how I deal with things that I cannot change. Laughing is healthier than crying, and the Night Circle knows I cried too much during my youth. Your sister is no more of a burden than I was at her age. In most families I would have been killed to save resources, but yet here I am."

He took a step forward as he noted the blood on his hand, "It was a hard day when I had to leave my family. I am sure that it is the same for Violet," he thought for a moment, "She might be tempted to join a larger pack for her safety in the same way that I had to do."

"And I've got no problem with that. Unlike you, though, Violet won't be able to leave if there's a problem. Not without someone to help her." Dodger had noticed what Taunt had said about himself but hid his surprise both on his face and his scent by letting himself stay angry and focusing on his sister. "Some of my packmates, the pack I was hatched in, anyway, didn't like Violet very much and made no secret about it. My siblings and I dealt with it, but still a few would whisper where they thought they couldn't be heard. One suggested getting rid of her. I nearly got rid of him." And I probably would be in quite a bit more trouble if Violet and I hadn't taken an unexpected swim the next day.

Taunt nodded, "I take it that Seeker gave you some terms on how he wants you to leave? Surely he didn't just tell you to get lost… that is not the sort of fastbiter that he is." Taunt pondered for a moment, "Is Thud allowing you all to follow him for a while until you get past the barrens?"

"I'm starting to think you were spying," Dodger said with as much humor as he could muster, in part an effort to calm down, "He did say that. He also invited us to join his pack if we wished." If Taunt's sworn to be quiet, there's no harm in telling him that. I hope.

Taunt didn't hide his surprise at the second part of Dodger's statement. The offer to join a pack was not one to be made lightly, but it made sense in this case. A pack of five or six would be in a safer position than two packs of three, "I… did not expect that. Rest assured that my packmates and I will respect whichever choice you make. I… um…" he hesitated as he considered how to put his next thought into words.

"We're still trying to figure things out ourselves," Dodger said, giving Taunt a chance to either drop what he planned on saying if he wanted or more time to figure out what he was trying to say.

"Do you have your pack names yet?" Taunt finally blurted out with a somewhat embarrassed expression on his face. He was not sure if Dodger and Tracker were adult names or not, but he had his doubts. Violet, in particular, was an unlikely name for a pack name.

Does Violet's name not make it obvious? Dodger sighed, Not everyone has Tracker's perception. "No. When we first started out we were still some Cold Times from being old enough to leave on our own. Over time we couldn't think of anything else to call ourselves, especially since we were in dangerous situations so often we couldn't afford even a moment's confusion."

Taunt nodded, "It is custom that pack names only be given when a fastbiter enters a pack as an adult, and it is given by another one with a pack name. It is not something to be considered lightly," he hesitated as he struggled to make his words as diplomatic as the situation demanded. Damn, I am not good at this! "If you join Thud's pack then he will give you all new names. But if you choose to stay as a pack then you may ask that honor of us, if you wish. If you feel that Seeker is worthy of that honor." Despite his best efforts, Taunt had worded his kind offer as an implied test of loyalty, but not really an unkind one. It was an awkward statement that would have given Violet a pounding headache were she to be present.

"If we stay independent, I'll ask Seeker," Dodger replied. He didn't even have to think about that answer. Maybe I should talk to Taunt about Violet. If she wants to stay, assuming she can, he'll need to know a few things so I don't come back here and do something horrible to him. "Taunt, can I talk to you about something? Something that I don't want mentioned beyond just us. Ever."

Taunt nodded, "Of course, Dodger. I gave you my vow. As long as it doesn't endanger my packmates, it shall remain secret." Though Taunt was a bit disturbed by the intense expression on the pack leader's face. He mused that it clearly communicated the 'don't share this with anyone or you will die' conversation quite well without the need for words.

"It's about Violet. I heard you made a joke at her expense last night." Dodger was doing his best to stay calm and not get agitated, but anything involving Violet risked sending him into an overprotective frenzy. Let's see if he remembers.

Taunt thought for a moment and nodded, "Yes. I pestered her and my father after he made a joke at my expense," he smiled slightly, "It is a bit of a family tradition to trade jokes with one another."

"You wouldn't happen to remember the joke exactly, would you?"

Taunt hesitated for a moment as he thought back to the previous night, I think I will leave the flirting joke to myself… "I told them all, after my father had his turn to joke, that my charm was irresistible to no one. Your sister said that she must had been 'no one' then, as she did not find me charming." he smiled, "She has a bit of wit in her."

"That she does, but that wasn't the one I was referring to," Dodger responded. Either he doesn't remember or he thinks it will get him in trouble. Smart. Annoying at times, but smart.

Taunt frowned, "I… um… did imply that my father was flirting with Violet," he quickly added context out of fear for his safety, "It is a similar joke that I make whenever Stern Claw is around another male or my father is around a female. He has sworn off such things since Mother died."

Glad to know Taunt wasn't specifically targeting Violet, but… "Could you do me a favor and never make that joke when Violet is involved again, especially if your father is involved as well?" Dodger asked. I'll explain if he wants me to.

Taunt nodded in agreement, "Of course, but, if you don't mind me asking, what about that specifically upset her?" he tilted his head in query, "If I tell her a different joke in the future I want to make sure that it doesn't also touch on whatever offended her deeply. Most of my packmates would find that kind of joke to be harmless."

"I'm pretty sure your packmates didn't have to deal with a good chunk of the pack they hatched acting like their very existence was offensive to them and later have a cousin try to kill them," Dodger responded with far more anger than he intended. I'm never going to forgive myself for not taking on Prowler the first time he hurt Violet.

Taunt looked at Dodger oddly, "I'm sorry, but why did your old pack look at you that way? A pack is supposed to support its own," he shook his head, "I can't imagine having family trying to kill you. Well… not since the days when my dad was with Redclaw."

"I should probably explain. My father was the pack deputy. My mother became my father's mate not too long after she joined the pack." It was nearly a requirement for joining, but explaining that would take awhile. "Some of the others were jealous of the prestige that gave her. Their kids not too surprisingly didn't like me or my siblings. The same kids outright hated Violet. Having a high-ranked parent and being smell-blind made her a target. Later, when we ended up on our own, Prowler was rather cruel to my sister. The worst part was that much of what he said was hard to refute. Violet is smell-blind, and, unfortunately, a bit clumsy both with her body and her words." Dodger sighed. He felt like a failure as a brother, and, if he dared use the word, as a parent. He'd done his best to teach his sister, but not every lesson sank in or in time for her to avoid learning something the hard way.

Taunt listened to Dodger's words with growing rage. He had memories of his childhood and somewhat regretting not having any other young biters to play with, but after hearing the other fastbiter's story he was much more circumspect.

"That is fucking horrible!" Taunt gritted his teeth, but resolved to be as honest with Dodger as the fastbiter was being with him. "I was so weak as a hatchling that my parents helped me out of the egg. What would I have done if my parents had been in a pack? Would I have become who I am today if I had other people my age calling me worthless or weak? Urgh…."

He growled as he looked away for a moment and caught his breath, "Why the fuck did your cousin want to hurt Violet?"

"Prowler's my cousin," Dodger said tiredly, as if that was explanation enough. It was also an accusation directed at himself.

Taunt shook his head, "Yeah… the old pack leader. The one that left his comrades behind. Proof that leadership doesn't pass by blood." he nearly spat the last word, "But what I don't understand is… why exactly did the joke involving my father upset her so much? My father is quite a nice biter, if a bit intimidating if you don't know him."

"Taunt, how old were your parents when you hatched?" Dodger asked before hastily adding, "You don't have to answer if you don't want to."

Taunt didn't get the implication, "Well, my dad is a bit older, obviously. But when I was hatched he was about six Cold Times older than Seeker. Mother was about Seeker's age… she was an early layer. Why do you ask?"

"When my father met my mother it was not that long before seeing off his daughter from a previous mate. She'd died only a few Cold Times after the eggs hatched." Please don't let that happen to Tracker. I'll lose my head. If I haven't lost it already.

Taunt hesitated for a moment, "Ah… a bit of an age difference. But I fail to see why that is a problem. We fastbiters live a hard life, and sometimes we join our ancestors at different times," he shook his head, "I know that if I were to meet my end soon then I would want Stern Claw to find someone else that made her happy… just remember me in song."

"The pack wasn't too happy when my mother and her sister, Prowler's mother showed up. In that pack, the leaders' mates outranked the rest of the pack members as a way of emphasizing that the leaders were unquestionably in charge." If you made a challenge, you'd better be sure because you would either be victorious, dead, or running for your life. "They weren't too happy with a couple girls that had only seen fourteen Cold Times each suddenly outranking them."

Taunt was taken aback, "Why would a pack decide things that way? That is asking for trouble. I mean, Ponder gets some special treatment because… well… Seeker has to sleep with her, you know?" Taunt stated in a matter-of-fact way, "But Stern Claw and I both outrank her. Keeping rank separate from love is better… that would sound like a very bad combination."

"Well, outside of the pack leader and his deputy or deputies," Dodger explained, "no one else had a right to command. If you wanted to be in charge you made a challenge. Failure meant death or banishment. Even the leaders' mates were not part of the leadership since they didn't earn it. Outside of the leadership, the ranks were for prestige only."

Taunt rubbed his head for a moment, "Eh… It is somewhat uncommon for a fastbiter male to have many mates because of… well… battles over which mate is the highest-ranked mate. My old pack once came across a pack that consisted of one male and his three mates. Somehow I think that Stern Claw would gut me if I even joked about taking an extra mate," he then shifted awkwardly, "Though I guess if a pack has extra males or females then interesting arrangements do happen. I know that the leader of the Hidden Runners, Ignis, has six males for herself as of the last time Spotter stopped by to talk to her. Hidden Runners are weird."

"Prowler's mother, my aunt, ended up as the pack leader's second mate. Had she and my mother not fought so much over my father's attention, things might have been different." I'm glad they did fight, considering how Prowler is. "Most of the other pairs were closer to the same age, so my mother and her sister really stood out." How exactly do I explain Violet's problem without making her look bad? Anyone else would've let me leave it at the age gap.

"I see…" Truth be told, Taunt was amazed by the degree of candor that Dodger was expressing. It was now quite clear how his joke had offended Dodger's sister, "I am sorry for joking about that matter then. I had no idea about that part of her story." he bowed his head slightly in an apologetic gesture that almost seemed wrong when it was coming from Taunt.

"You didn't know," Dodger said as he tried to figure out how say that everything was fine as long as the joke wasn't done again. "Did you notice how Violet reacted to the joke? Since she didn't bother to tell me what happened herself... "

"She did glare at me a moment, but I am kind of used to that from Stern Claw. I didn't think at the time that it bothered her too much." Taunt answered.

"So she didn't panic?" Just making sure she didn't take it too much to heart or think it meant she was unlikable.

Taunt shook his head, "No. She seemed quite in control. Much more in control than she was when I saw her earlier."

"I'd best find them quickly, then. Taunt, don't mention what we said about my sister to anyone, especially Violet," Dodger said.

Taunt nodded, "You have my vow. Do you want me to help you track them down? Two sniffers are better than one."

"If it's not too much trouble…" I could use all the help I can get.

Without further words, Taunt followed Dodger as the two tried to follow Tracker and Violet's scent trail. Undoubtedly, a very important pack discussion was about to take place.

---

The tall grass parted in front of Taunt as the tell-tale scales of two fastbiters began to come into view, glimmering in the sunlight. It was then that Taunt gave Dodger the slightest of nods as he knew that it was his time to leave.

Spotting Taunt, Tracker rushed over before he could leave. "Taunt, would you be willing to go find your father for me? I need to talk to him."

Taunt was taken aback, "Um… sure. What should I tell him that you want to discuss?" Even though he was Thud's son, he knew that he would need to be specific with his summons. If this was about the 'pack' issue then his father would need to know beforehand.

"Well," Tracker began, feeling a bit embarrassed over the topic, "Thud said something to Violet about her smell-blindness, and I'd like to talk to him about that." If I get any more specific this is going to end up involving more than just Thud and myself.

Taunt shifted uncomfortably as he glanced at Dodger and told a weak joke, "Keep them from killing my father, alright?" he then quickly sprinted off to fetch his father.

Violet watched the exchange with more than a little agitation. She didn't want to be a source of any further conflict. Especially not with her potential future pack leader.

"I'm not going to start a fight, Violet," Tracker said, trying to reassure Violet once Taunt left.

"I missed something, didn't I?" Dodger asked, looking from his mate to his sister and back.

Violet shifted a little, "Thud talked to me last night before I went back to my sleeping area."

"I heard about that. And you didn't tell me," Dodger tried to keep the disappointment out of his voice, but keeping secrets, especially ones that were bothering her, was something he'd tried his best to discourage in Violet.

Violet looked down, suddenly ashamed, "I didn't know what I was supposed to do. He is a pack leader, and he said stuff that he didn't want me to tell other people. Kind of like with me and my smell-blindness," she looked up at Dodger with more than a little confusion, "It wasn't anything that would have harmed any of us. Unless you wanted to know why Taunt acts like Taunt." she added the last sentence with more than a little exasperation. Taunt seemed to evoke that response even when he wasn't present.

Tracker shot Violet a warning look. That's not yours to tell, Violet.

Violet nodded in response. If Dodger asked for the details then she would simply direct him to Thud. After all, if they joined with his pack then they would hear those songs soon enough.

"It still bothered you, though. I don't like hearing that my sister was upset from another pack leader," Dodger said. I'm here to help, Violet. All you have to do is ask. "Is everything alright, now?"

Violet took a deep breath, "As alright as it can be with us not knowing where we are going from here."

"What do you mean by that?" Dodger asked. She probably guessed it, but I need to be sure.

Violet hesitated, "Um… I didn't get it until Tracker helped to explain things to me. But… we can either leave on our own or…" she hesitated, "Is that part of the reason Thud talked to me last night? He wanted me to know that he wouldn't mind a smell-blind packmate?" in her nervousness she didn't realize that she was jumping from one topic to another.

And there's the Violet I've known my whole life. "I'm not sure. I can't see inside Thud's head. And I'm glad I can't see inside Taunt's. Thud said that he would either help us claim or territory or let us join his pack. He mentioned you by name, so your choice is your own." Dodger sighed. You'll never know how much this hurts to say. "I can't make that decision for you. You're an adult now. What do you want to do?"

Violet froze as the suddenness of the question brought her possibilities into sharp focus. This was it, and there would be little possibility of going back once she declared her loyalties. Would she try to join Seeker's pack? Or join with Thud's? Or, for that matter, would she simply agree with whatever decision Dodger made? In that moment she tried to think, but her overwhelmed mind seemed unsuitable for the task. She had never suspected that she would have to make such a choice, but yet, here it was.

"You don't have to decide right now," Tracker said, echoing her earlier words. She could see how much this was bothering Violet. This was not surprising. It was a huge step to take.

Dodger didn't trust himself to speak. I'm surprised I'm still standing. I should probably talk to her about the practicalities of each option, but it doesn't look like she's in any shape to discuss this that deeply right now.

"What would happen if I stayed in Seeker's pack?" Violet asked with hesitation, "Prowler's dad had two mates, would that happen to me? Haven already doesn't have a male…" her mind was now running through all of the possibilities, but in the end they all came back to fears from her childhood. Fears that Taunt had brought to the surface the night before.

Would it look bad if I pummeled Taunt the next time I saw him? Dodger thought, It's not entirely his fault, but he definitely didn't help.

"But if I went to Thud's pack alone… well… there is Thud and Leap," she couldn't help but shiver at that possibility. She had never thought about companionship in that way, really, but then again she never really had the opportunity to do so. If possible, the options in Thud's pack were even more awkward. If she were to enter into the Time of Mating then who knows how things would end up? Then there was the possibility of her leaving with Dodger and Tracker. She obviously couldn't mate with her brother, and that means she would need to leave at some point anyway, or they would have to take in a wayward male.

I honestly don't know what to say to that, Tracker thought.

I told Leap I wouldn't kill him. I told Leap I wouldn't kill him. I told… I'm going to kill him. Wait, no. Augh! This is beyond disturbing. To anyone that didn't know Dodger nothing out of the ordinary was happening. To his packmates, Dodger looked like he was about to faint. On the positive side, at least I know something about Leap. And Thud. Random unknown fastbiter… kill on sight. I think I'm going to sit down…

"I guess… I guess unless our pack gets more members I will have to leave anyway, won't I? I will eventually have to go." Violet's words changed within a few instants from a mournful question to a statement of fact. The status quo could not last forever.

Thud walked near the pack with great hesitation as he heard Violet's words. He had not expected to enter when the pack was making up its mind. He had hoped to give them privacy during their decision making. Son, what have you gotten me into now?

Tracker was the first to spot Thud. Oh crap. The other two noticed Thud a moment after she did.

The three were almost instantly on their feet, their heads bowed as their respective ranks demanded. From their time with Prowler, only Dodger's bow was entirely accurate while Violet's was a close second. Tracker's would've resulted in severe pain for her suspected disrespect.

Thud paused as he took in the sight in front of him. Was this an indication of their acceptance of himself as their new pack leader? Or was this a mere show of respect? He decided to stay neutral in case the answer was the latter.

"Thank you," he then bowed respectfully as well, with an odd arch of the back which indicated uncertain rank, "I came because I was summoned."

"At ease," Dodger muttered before relaxing his stance and responding to Thud in a normal tone, "Thank you for coming. Tracker?" Dodger gestured to his mate.

"I needed to talk to you, sir," Tracker said, stepping forward a bit. Dodger subtly steered his sister away from what was meant to be a private conversation.

Thud noted the change in demeanor and turned to allow for a private conversation, "Should we speak over here?" he gestured a moderate distance away, but still well within visual and scent range of the others.

Tracker nodded and for once led the way. "I heard that you and Violet talked last night. Was it your intention to scare her?" Tracker asked, tone almost apologetic. Maybe this wasn't a good idea.

Thud shook his head, "No; did I scare her?" his expression grew quite concerned, "I tried very hard to make my intentions known. I just wanted her to know that not everyone looks at those who are smell-blind as something to be discarded. I had never seen one like her that survived past their youth."

"She knew that some didn't like her. I don't know what you intended to accomplish by telling her that she should've been long dead. You managed to make her doubt her parents." Tracker had stopped watching her tone and was now letting her anger show. What were you thinking, Thud?

Thud looked confused, "How did I make her doubt her own parents? The fact that they cared for her when others did not surely told her that she was loved," he looked at the fastbiter oddly, "Is it wrong to offer support in this cruel world?"

"She outright asked me about what her parents thought about her and started worrying if some of the others in her old pack wanted to kill her. The problem is, sir, she doesn't know. Not with her own memory. Dodger knows, but most of what Violet knows is what he told her. She was questioning everything she thought she knew." Tracker sighed in frustration. Ancestors help me.

Thud froze at that acknowledgement. He had no idea that Violet's memories were so compromised, "Seeker told me that she had some memory problems, but I didn't realize that she barely remembered her parents. How horrible!" he looked down, ashamed, "The way that she talked about you and Dodger picking a fight with some that threatened her… and some of the other things… I just assumed that she remembered all of that."

"I wasn't part of Dodger's pack, as much as I wish I was. Dodger found me a bit after he, Violet, and Prowler got separated from their pack. My pack died in attack not that long beforehand. I was the only one that made it." Tracker hated talking about her past. There was too much chance of someone pitying her. "Prowler didn't exactly approve of my joining." Neither did Violet at first, actually.

Thud nodded, "I guess that I should have talked to Dodger first. I am so used to being on a good basis with Seeker's pack, that I forgot to use proper etiquette here," he looked at Tracker, "It would have avoided this confusion. Though… it would have also avoided Violet learning about the world at large. In my conversation with her she seemed very composed, albeit with quite a lot of nervousness. I had no idea that it messed her up so much."

"Violet tries to not let others know if something bothers her, Dodger usually excluded. Honestly I can't believe she didn't tell Dodger about this immediately. She asked me about it after talking to some of her other friends." At least I think she asked Haven first. I still don't know whether I should feel hurt by that.

Thud remained silent as he considered the ramifications of that. That must mean some of Seeker's pack. Perhaps she is considering joining his pack then. "I hope that they calmed her down. Seeker's pack are a good bunch. I am still amazed that they accepted me after how I treated them in the past."

"Was it worse than apparent invasion and attack of one of their own? I've got the scar to prove they weren't happy to meet us." I'm lucky I still have the leg, Tracker thought. She knew part of Thud's story, but there seemed to be some history not mentioned in the "Song of the Seven Hunters".

"I was part of Redclaw's pack before Calin came along," he muttered plainly, "When they were leaf-eaters I had tried to eat them on several occasions. I was even estranged from my own son until Redclaw betrayed my brother and I. It was only then that I saw the error of my ways. Power without honor is worthless."

Tracker took an unconscious step back from Thud at the mention of Calin. Bad memories. Don't think about it! "Okay… why do I get the feeling not all of this happened inside the Grand Valley?"

Thud snorted, "Seeker, or Littlefoot as he was called then, and his friends always seemed to end up in the Mysterious Beyond. Sometimes back then I mused that they had a death wish. But they always found a way to escape," he shook his head, "Their reputations preceded them, though. No less than seven sharpteeth died trying to catch them, including Redclaw's son. Five little leaf-eater younglings did that. So what does fate do? It apparently decides they weren't horrifying enough so it gave them sharp teeth and claws." he added with some amusement.

"I think Dodger's more intimidated by Stern Claw's dad than anything with claws. I think it might have something to do with us never winning against a threehorn." Tracker decided to leave out that she really wasn't very fond of threehorns herself thanks to a certain near-death experience.

Thud nodded, "Maybe so. But I would hate to be on Seeker's bad side," he then looked at her intently, "Shall we go back to your pack?" there was a slight hesitation after 'your'. Thud still was not sure how he stood with this pack. It was a most awkward situation.

"Is something wrong?" Tracker asked, noticing that Thud's question didn't sound quite right.

"Forgive me, but… I was uncertain if there was anything else. If your pack leader has not made a decision then I can give you all privacy…" Thud sounded utterly helpless, a most odd situation for him.

Okay, maybe I shouldn't explain what our initial reaction to him was all about, Tracker thought, It might get a bit weird. I don't want him believing we think he and Prowler are in any way connected. "We're still trying to figure it out. Violet's not taking any of this well, and I don't know what to say to help her. And Dodger is, well... " I don't think I can explain Dodger, though Thud might actually be the most understanding. I'm surprised Violet never accidentally called him 'Dad', even mockingly. He worries about her enough to fit the title.

Thud sighed as he nodded slowly, "I understand… Just remember that the choice is entirely up to all of you. Whether I am to call you 'ally' or 'packmate', I only hope for the best for all of you… I will be helping my son find ground fuzzies if you need to summon me again," he then looked in Dodger's direction, some distance away, and gave a respectful nod. Then, without any further words, he sprinted off in the direction that his son had run off earlier.

Tracker watched him go, a bit wrongfooted. Well, that was awkward. At least nothing bad came out of that. What's been getting into me lately? I'm rarely that rude even with Dodger. Throwing what Thud had accidentally done in his face was the closest Tracker had ever gotten to picking a fight in her life. I should probably make sure Dodger knows never to consider me for deputy, assuming we need that. I'm not cut out for that.

"Do I even want to know?" Dodger asked, having walked up to his mate after Thud left and pretending he hadn't heard anything at all.

"Probably not." Translation: can we please not talk about it?

"Ok, then." Silently the two walked back to where Violet had remained. Discussing all that with Violet listening probably wouldn't be the best idea.

Violet had barely paid attention as she considered the possibilities in her mind. She still had so much to learn, but if she were to stay then that would seal her path. It was almost too much for her to take in. I almost wish that Dodger would choose for me.

"You alright, Violet?" Dodger asked. Maybe we should take a break from this. Violet's going to worry herself to death trying to figure this out. That's my job, not hers.

Violet sighed, "Not really. I… I think it would be easier for me to choose if I knew what both of you were doing…" she shrugged, almost helplessly, "That way I would know where everything stood."

I'm going to ram my head into another tree, Dodger thought in frustration, She does realize that if she chooses anything other than staying with us she'll have made our choice for us, right? "That could be a bit problematic, Violet."

Violet groaned, "And it isn't problematic now!?" then, as if she had been bitten, she realized who she was talking to, "Um… Sorry, Dodger… I…"

"Maybe we should all just take a break," Tracker suggested, fearing an argument was in the making and hoping to keep her mate from responding. Dodger's expression was unreadable and his scent was giving her contradicting messages.

"That might be best," Dodger said, doing his best to keep his tone neutral. Stay calm. Stay calm. This isn't Violet's fault. I shouldn't have to tell myself this.

Violet closed her eyes as she took in the pack consensus. Then, without another word, she sat down again and stared off into the blue sky. The conversation may have been put on hold, but Violet's mind was still in full motion. I just want my brother and Tracker to be safe…

"I'll be back later," Dodger told Tracker. He turned and left almost at a run. If I stay much longer I'll say something I'll regret. He hated to admit it, but the whole conversation hurt. Is she tired of being around me? Does Violet not feel I can keep her safe anymore? I'm not sure I want to know her answer.

Well, that's not good, Tracker thought, Not good at all.

---

The present:

"I still don't get why he doesn't go with us. Doesn't he know how bad it can be out there?"

Arial sighed. Sometimes Nahoda could see things that others might miss, but sometimes he saw things that weren't there.

"I mean… the Mysterious Beyond is not a good place. Everything wants to eat you, and everything you want to eat wants to kill you," Nahoda rambled on, "I mean… your sister and her friends sound scary too, but they are family so…"

Arial could not suppress her groan. "Dear."

"And what is he going to do with the pack? It isn't like he knows how to heal," Nahoda continued, "At least by a stream he can get fish and…"

"Dear," Arial tried again.

"And if he goes with a bunch of scary biters then how he can expect to make a family? After all, Mender is one scary…"

Nahoda did not have a chance to finish before Arial grabbed his beak with her hands and stared into his eyes. "Dear?"

Nahoda tried to answer in the affirmative but only muffled sounds came out. Arial suspected that Taunt already knew this particular fact of life: when one's mouth is held closed by their mate they can only speak in vowels.

Arial allowed herself a cheeky smile. "Orchid is a big fastrunner and can make his own decisions. If he wants to be a healer then he can be a healer. If he finds a nice female along the way and makes a family then he can do that. I am sure that he will make something work in the Mysterious Beyond because, unlike you, dear, he occasionally does look behind himself."

Nahoda tried to speak again. "En'der brite 'hind me?"

Arial looked at the violet fastbiter. "Do you have any plants that can help fix a lack of common sense, Mender?"

"Sorry, but nope. If I even knew of any I'd probably have run out a long time ago. Common sense is surprisingly uncommon," Mender answered, glancing at Nahoda in a way that was not entirely friendly.

Nahoda sighed as Arial let go of his beak. "But am I wrong, Mender? You said in your song that you barely survived until you met Seeker's pack. Wouldn't a stream be a safer place for a fastrunner than roaming around?" He looked over at Orchid and Cynnil in the distance as they inspected a cavern for some reason that Nahoda could only assume had to do with the challenge. "His distraction saved me. He saved my life."

Despite Nahoda's voice barely being a whisper, Mender could hear him clearly. "So you're saying that hanging around a rather scary predator that likes you is somehow more dangerous than you needing to constantly look behind you to make sure I don't bite your tail off?" Mender asked. While she appreciated that Nahoda was concerned with Orchid's safety, she wasn't entirely sure that he was thinking all that clearly.

For the love of the ancestors, Nahoda, you're going to get yourself eaten before we even get to Seeker's pack. Arial rolled her eyes as she gave Mender a knowing look. The meaning was clear 'he might be a doofus, but he is my doofus.'

Nahoda quickly moved his tail out of harm's way as if in reply. "I guess… I lived out there. So I am not so keen on going back to that kind of life. Of wandering and not knowing where your next meal would come from." He then gave Mender a respectful nod. "Or if you would become someone's meal."

Arial decided to change the subject before Mender insisted on additional 'training' for her mate. "What are they doing over there? Why is that cavern so important?"

"You don't recognize it, Arial?" Mender asked.

Arial took a few steps before her eyes lit up. "Oh! It's the old hiding place!"

Nahoda rolled his eyes. "Yeah, if you're an egg maybe."

This earned him a tail slap from his companion. "No, you idiot! It was the hiding place when Orchid and I were very, very little. Mommy and Daddy would fish in the stream so if any sharpteeth came by we would hide in there where they couldn't fit."

"Did you actually stay there?" Mender asked, knowing firsthand that even sick hatchlings had a tendency to wander, especially the youngest who had no sense of danger.

Arial nodded. "Many times. Screech and Thud would make their patrols here. Mommy and Daddy could sprint away, but we simply had to hide."

---

Thud did what? Mender mentally shrieked, Wait. This was before Screech died, so... But that's still ridiculous. There's nothing out here for them to have a reason to be anywhere near here. The only thing I've found decent to eat out here is Nahoda. Her mind went blank for a moment. I probably shouldn't say that out loud...

Nahoda appeared to wilt as Mender gazed at him for a moment. Luckily for him the moment was cut off by a certain hidden runner.

"Hey, Mends! Cynnil wants to talk to us!"

"How many times do I have to tell you not to shout?" Mender muttered to herself before obeying the summons. It's like you're trying to tell everything we could possibly eat that we're in the area.

Mender was soon greeted by the sight of a disheveled purple fastrunner gesturing wildly at the small cave. His feathers flared out in frustration.

"But a challenge is supposed to be possible, right? If you don't want me in the pack then all you had to do is tell me."

Cynnil smiled. "Ah… but you are thinking like a fastrunner. You will have to cure yourself of that before you can cure anyone else."

Orchid turned towards Mender as she arrived on scene, giving her the slightest of nods before looking at the cave again. He put his tail into the small hole, only to have it nearly get stuck as if to illustrate his point.

"I don't know how you want me to think. Only a fool would think that I can fit in here! The entire point was to keep sharpteeth away from us when we were little runners."

"Doesn't seem like it does its job too well," Mender thought aloud, "There's no other way out."

Orchid shrugged. "Sharpteeth gave up when we were in there and tried to focus on something larger. Though some of them snarled at us for a while…" He shivered as if remembering something. "But there was no way out."

Mender stuck her snout into the hiding place for a moment. "I'm pretty sure Staza could have reached you a couple years ago," she muttered.

Buse snorted. "Was she the size of a ground fuzzy?"

"Are you?" Mender asked, glancing at him mischievously.

"No, you cannot shove Buse's head into the hole, Mender. Otherwise how is Orchid supposed to get in there?" Cynnil muttered with a laugh.

Buse looked perplexed for a moment before he saw the look on Mender's face. "Hey!"

"So, no one ever tried digging you out?" Mender asked Orchid, curious.

Orchid looked a bit unnerved at Mender's curiosity about how other sharpteeth had tried to eat him in the past, but merely gestured at the claw marks in the rock. Even after all of these years, Screech's imprint still remained.

"Looks like he was making progress... why'd he stop?" Mender thought more than asked.

"Mender…" Cynnil warned, but Orchid answered weakly.

"My dad made a distraction, and they went after that." Orchid gulped. "He nearly didn't make it."

I really need to keep my big mouth shut, Mender thought to herself, glancing towards Orchid in silent apology.

"And I would have done it again in a heartbeat."

Everyone turned their heads towards the elder fastrunners. Detras had entered the scene along with his mate.

"So, son… thinking about becoming a healer?"

Detra's question struck the smaller fastrunner as if it clarified something in his mind. As if hearing it aloud made it more real.

"I want to explore, Dad. And…" He turned around to face his parents. "I thought that a pack would be as safe as anywhere else. I mean if you can't outrun them then join them." He gave Mender a playful look as if so confirm that there were no hard feelings.

"And you want to find your very own 'special female friend', no doubt," Pearl added with a smirk.

"Mom!"

Buse chuckled. "Busted!"

As the skin around Orchid's beak threatened to change into a pinker shade of violet, his father decided to spare his son from any more embarrassment.

"So you are giving me son a challenge in the fastbiter way. What have you prepared for him?"

Cynnil stepped forward and gestured to the small cavern. "His challenge, if he is to be found worthy of my pack, is to escape from Hanging Rock without being caught by my pack; to place one of his feathers into the deepest part of this cavern without going through the hole; and then to return to the sleeping area." Cynnil crossed her arms. "He will have as many chances as he wishes, but he must complete the challenge tonight."

Mender quickly butted in, being careful to watch Cynnil's face for confirmation. "But if he fails we will still bring him to Seeker's." I'll get him there myself if I have to.

The hidden runner nodded. "Of course."

The two fastrunners shared a look and a nod before again turning their focus on their son. It was Pearl that finally spoke.

"Just remember, dear, that we are proud of you no matter what happens." Despite Orchid's embarrassment she insisted on embracing him. It was then that Mender noticed the oddest thing. A knowing glance between Cynnil and the female fastrunner. "And remember that in the Mysterious Beyond you have to think in many ways to outsmart your foes. Only the ground fuzzy who thinks like a flyer can avoid the flyer's grasp."

It was then that Orchid pulled away and gave his mother a look. This was followed by him giving Cynnil a look.

I'm definitely missing something, Mender thought, and I don't like it.

"You are in on this, Mom?!" Orchid accused.

Pearl merely looked at her mate and snorted.

"You too, Dad?!"

Pearl and Detras both gave their son knowing smirks before his father answered. "I wasn't going to let any of you go on a journey without being trained. So I will be damned before I let you go with a pack without a proper test." he crossed his arms with satisfaction. "Who do you think told them all about the hole?"

Mender rolled her eyes. And I still don't know why you did that. While a bit of a death trap, it wasn't the worst hiding place you could send small guests.

Cynnil clasped her hands on the candidate pack member. "Alright, Orchid, no more hints. You will have until the rise of the Bright Circle tomorrow to complete your task. If you succeed then you will be our newest member, but if you fail then you can be as you are now." She pulled away leaving the fastrunner with his parents as she gestured for her packmates to join her. But as Mender quickened her pace she did spare the young fastrunner two words in a hushed whisper.

"Good luck."

---

The past:

"I just don't know what to tell him, you know?" Littlefoot muttered to his mate as he ripped into another fish, "Thud made the offer out of kindness, thinking that one larger pack will do better than two smaller ones. But from what he told me… it seems to have caused some problems."

Ruby looked at Littlefoot with some concern, "He told you about the conversation?"

Littlefoot shook his head immediately, which caused some fish entrails to smack his mate in her head. After an apologetic nod, Littlefoot answered her, "No, but he did tell me that Tracker gave him a bit of a tongue-lashing."

Ruby rubbed the fish blood off of her head and licked the delicious substance from her hand, "That is very unlike Tracker. Tracker usually is very nice and calm."

The brown fastbiter sighed, "Yeah… that tells me that the pack is not taking their decision well. Maybe it would have been kinder for us to simply tell them to leave?"

Ruby smiled at her mate and placed a hand on his shoulder, "Postponing a choice does not make the choice any easier. They would have to decide to remain a pack of three or to join another sooner or later. Thud just made the day come sooner."

"Yeah… I know. It's just…" Littlefoot's eyes then focused into the distance as a familiar blue form appeared in the bushes, "Dear, I think that we may have a visitor.."

Ruby went alert and looked back, before her expression became relaxed again, "Dear, I think this visitor is meant for you," she smiled as she took the fish from earlier and flicked some entrails into her mate's face, a playful act of retaliation, "We can talk later."

Littlefoot smiled, "Thanks, Dear." Within moments the two had nuzzled and Ruby had sprinted back in the direction of the stream. Leaving Littlefoot alone as Dodger got within vocal range.

"Welcome, Dodger. Is there something on your mind?"

Um, everything. Dodger just nodded an affirmative until he could figure out what he should say. "My pack's discussion isn't really getting anywhere quickly." He sighed in frustration, unable to bring himself to speak of exactly what was bothering him so badly. "I could use some help."

Littlefoot nodded solemnly as he gestured to where his mate had been sitting earlier. With her scent still on the site, it was obvious the significance of his kind gesture.

Dodger took the offered position awkwardly, unsure if he really should do that. Are you sure this is okay?

"My mate is catching some fish by the stream," Littlefoot neglected to mention that it was Dodger's obvious distress that had caused her to take her leave, "In the meantime we can talk. So the discussion isn't going well?"

"Violet's panicking, and I honestly don't know what to do about anything. I'm probably just making it worse," Dodger replied. More like definitely making it worse.

Littlefoot nodded, "It is a big decision for her. She has to choose where she is to go from here on out… not a decision to be made lightly," he shook his head, "I still remember when we were forced from the valley. It was one of the most traumatic events of our lives."

"I imagine it would be. Even if you were used to being fastbiters, having your own families trying to kill you... " Dodger just shook his head, disturbed by such thoughts. You're supposed to be able to count on your family. To lose that… I don't want to even imagine it.

"I hope that you don't misunderstand us, Dodger. If these lands would support a larger pack then that would be one thing, but I have to think of the future. Eventually eggs will come, and with them more mouths to feed," he gave a sad smile, "I have to think of my own pack first."

"Since I expected to not survive the night we met, I can't exactly argue with being asked to leave," Dodger said. His face suddenly turned angry. "If you see Prowler, please make sure he doesn't survive the encounter. I can forgive him leaving me, but Violet?" Assuming she didn't run into Seeker's pack and been killed, she would have starved to death.

Littlefoot nodded, "I was tempted after you told us your tale to have Spotter pay him a visit. It only would take a little Orange Death to resolve that problem," he looked away from Dodger for a moment as Littlefoot appeared to contemplate the Bright Circle, "But, of course, you know what root that is now."

I definitely should start running. Dodger couldn't stop himself from tensing. It didn't occur to him to reply. He was already figuring out the best way back to his packmates and out of the territory.

"You see, Dodger? All packs must think of their own first. I would expect no less from any pack leader," Littlefoot glanced back at him with a mostly unreadable expression, except for kind eyes, "Right before Tracker sounded the alert, Leap had noticed her looking at the plant," he stated matter-of-factly.

Dodger couldn't keep his mouth from hanging open in shock. Neither in his home pack nor as part of Prowler's would such a potential act of rebellion or hostility not been confronted with extreme force. I should be dead several times over, apparently.

"It makes sense that a pack would want to know where such a powerful thing could be found. That is why we keep close watch over our supplies.. and took the step of destroying those plants in other places around here," he smiled, though his eyes had a bit of a devious glint, "We don't want others to have our advantage and use it against us."

Okay, so why am I still alive? Dodger couldn't help but tense more and solidify his escape plan, should it prove necessary. He even tried to figure exactly how to go about taking down the fasbiter in front of him. This could go wrong in so many ways. There's got to be a way out of this.

"You are a pack leader, Dodger, and a good one, whether you believe that or not. You wanted to gain a powerful weapon that would protect your pack and even its odds despite its small numbers… and right now you are calculating the best way to fight me off or to escape with your packmates, because that is what a good pack leader does," he gave a slight nod, "You can relax, by the way. If I had thought that you had intended my pack any harm then we would not be having this conversation right now."

Dodger slowly forced himself to relax. If it wouldn't start a real fight I'd be tempted to hit you for that. As much as he respected Littlefoot, giving Dodger the impression that his packmates were under threat was making it hard for him to be anything other than angry at the other pack leader.

"But what if it wasn't me tricking you into being afraid and angry, but rather another pack? Then it would be up to the three of you to fight or flee. You have been lucky thus far, but that luck may not last forever," Littlefoot's expression turned serious as he continued his mostly one-sided conversation, "Securing a safe territory might be the best bet for a small pack, but you also have the option of not being in such a small pack anymore. You mentioned that Violet was panicking, but yet you have not told me why she was panicking. Why do you think she is panicked right now?"

"She doesn't know what to do. She's spent her whole life having me either guiding or outright telling her what to do. Now she's got the biggest decision of her life up to this point, and she has to make that decision herself. I gave up my right to tell her what to do outside of being a pack leader when I pronounced her an adult." The last Dodger added to convince himself to not interfere as much as explain to Littlefoot why he was stepping back from Violet's decision.

Littlefoot nodded, having understood that aspect of the issue, "And which part of her decision do you think she is having the most difficulty with?"

"It seems to be all of it. She thinks that if she stays with Tracker and myself she'll have to leave eventually anyway. I'd love to know where she got that notion. As for choosing another pack, she seems torn between going with Thud or asking to stay here. I take it there might be a problem with that," Dodger explained, or at least tried to.

Littlefoot did not change his expression, "And which part of her possible decision would you have the most difficulty with?"

"Frankly I'm concerned about her leaving. If she doesn't feel I can keep her even remotely safe, I understand." Not really. "I'm just concerned about how safe she'd be with others, some of whom don't really know her at all." Like the fact that patience is needed lest she feel like she is going to be hurt for a minor infraction. On second thought, Seeker, please just hold on to Prowler and alert me. I'll kill him myself.

"Have you considered that the reason that she is so conflicted might be that she wants you and Tracker to be kept safe?" he looked directly into Dodger's eyes, "She may want to go her own way… or be considering it at least… but she doesn't want to leave you two in the event that you decide to go on your own. I don't know her as well as you, not even close, but I do know that she doesn't regret having you as her protector."

"How would you know that?" Dodger asked, careful to keep his voice neutral.

Littlefoot rolled his eyes, "Oh, for the love of sanity, Dodger, do you see the way she looks up to you? I think if you were to criticize her to any degree that she would be upset for days. She may have seen some other possibilities lately, her possibilities as an adult, but this doesn't mean that she is prepared to cast you all aside," his eyes turned a bit more sympathetic, "I wonder… if a bit of a hybrid solution might be best for everyone." he muttered without realizing that he had said that aloud.

"Hybrid?" Dodger asked, mulling over the unfamiliar word, "What do you mean by that?"

Littlefoot froze, "Um… well a hybrid is like… when I was a longneck you would sometimes see other longneck kinds come into the valley. But every once in awhile you would see one who was a mix of both kinds, because the kinds were close enough to…" he shook his head, "Anyway… what I meant was that there might be a way to do a mix between the options."

"How so?" Dodger asked.

Littlefoot sighed. He was unsure if Thud would agree to it, but he supposed that it wouldn't hurt to mention the possibility, "The reason why Thud is so willing to let all of you in is.. well, for one you are all trustworthy, but secondly… he needs more members in order to be safe against larger packs. But that is only really necessary during the Dry Times," he put a claw against his beak, "Perhaps you could agree to follow Thud's pack during the Dry Times, but defend your own little territory beside his during the Wet Times?"

That seems a bit over-complicated, and it's not going to help Violet. If she follows Thud, Tracker and I will follow out of necessity. If she stays with Seeker, my actions will be the same. "That's worth considering, but I'm not sure how much that will help Violet." Especially since she seems biased towards your pack, Seeker.

"If she is fearful about making a choice that she will regret, then this will give her an opportunity to see both possibilities," while also keeping Thud's pack safe, Littlefoot thought to himself, "It might make a final choice later on much easier. Though well… the transfers from his pack to your pack might be a little awkward."

Dodger gave Littlefoot an inquisitive look, confused as how such a reversion would be awkward.

Littlefoot sighed, "Let's just say that when Dein took over for awhile during our training it was a bit odd for me. We sometimes don't realize our egos until we have them challenged."

Littlefoot suddenly took on a contemplative expression. "But I am not free to put words in Thud's mouth, so I cannot promise that he would agree to a compromise, but I guess it is worth a try. It would help both of your packs in your time of need, without permanently sealing your paths. If nothing else, it might allow Violet to breath a little easier."

"It might," Dodger agreed, "I have to ask on her behalf, though, what would happen if she wished to stay? If she wished to step away from me entirely I know she'd feel better around those that she knows." One conversation aside, she barely knows Thud's name. I doubt she knows Leap beyond his name, and I'd be shocked if she even knows Swift's name.

"If she wanted to stay with us until your pack came by again, then she would be welcome to do so. No one in my pack would have any objections," Littlefoot spoke softly, "If you two joined Thud's pack then that return would be in about six cycles of the Night Circle if Thud keeps to his usual custom… but if you kept to yourselves then we would welcome about that time."

"I know that couldn't be permanent," Dodger replied. As much as I know Violet might wish it could be, he mentally added. "My one concern is that Violet can't leave on her own. Her sniffer doesn't allow her to do that." Which ultimately leaves the pack leader in complete control of her…

Littlefoot nodded, "That is something that she will have to realize. If she stays here, or goes to Thud's pack, then she would be bound to that pack until the next… um… transition. I know it would not be an ideal solution, but it might be worth a try," Littlefoot shifted kind of awkwardly, "Just out of curiosity, is there anything in particular that Violet has mentioned as a reason she is considering joining another pack? Besides the possibility of her pack joining with a larger one, I mean?"

"I'm honestly not sure. I'm having trouble figuring out what she wants. She actually asked me what Tracker and I were doing. Unfortunately I, at least, was intending on knowing what Violet was doing first before considering what Tracker and I should do. If she goes with you or Thud we'd join Thud's pack. I'm not putting Tracker in danger for no good reason," Dodger replied, sounding tired as he reached the end.

"I suppose that could be why she wanted to know what you two are doing first. She wants to make sure you two are safe, but if you two are already joining a bigger pack then she can be sure that you will be okay, regardless of what she chooses," Littlefoot pondered.

"I'll talk to Tracker and see if she wants to do that regardless of what Violet chooses," Dodger said, "If that helps Violet I guess I can figure that much out. Someone needs to talk to Violet, though, so she knows where she stands. Someone that knows both your pack and Thud's. One thing I noticed that was bothering her was how little she knew about what each choice would entail." And no, I'm not repeating what she said. You'd never be able to look at her the same way again.

Littlefoot shifted awkwardly, "Perhaps one of us should talk to Haven or Ponder…"

---

What was I thinking? Never mind the fact that he's currently my pack leader, Dodger's my brother. Why do I keep saying stuff and make things worse? Violet was not having a good day. She'd slipped up talking with Tracker earlier and more recently made what appeared to be a much bigger mistake with her brother.

How am I supposed to fix this? He's got to be really mad. Saying anything would have been better than just walking away. Violet's attempts to calm herself had failed after Tracker couldn't come up with something reassuring to say. How can I even think about joining another pack when I can't even stay out of trouble in the one I'm in?

"Are you alright, Violet?"

"Haven? W-what are you doing here?" Violet asked. Wow, that was rude. "Um, I mean... " She glanced away from Ducky, not even noticing the other fastbiter's already concerned expression. I can't do anything right today, can I?

"Dodger told me that you might want someone to talk to right now. Otherwise I would not interrupt you," Ducky stopped as she got within a body-length of Violet, "But if you don't want to talk right now then I can go. I just want to make sure that you are alright."

"Is he still mad?" Violet asked hesitantly, afraid of the answer.

Ducky frowned as she took that as an invitation to sit down, "He did not seem mad to me, nope, nope, nope. But he did seem tired and scared."

"We are talking about Dodger, right?" Violet asked, nearly shocked out of her oncoming depression by Ducky's words, "Dodger's not scared of anything."

Ducky shrugged slightly, "He seemed scared for you. I didn't know what was going on until he and Seeker told me. Potentially joining another pack is certainly a scary thing. It is a big decision," she tilted her head, "You thought that he was mad at you? I take it that there was a disagreement?"

"I snapped at him right before he left," Violet admitted. She could smell the scent of her own embarrassment quite strongly. She was surprised Ducky could even breath if what she was smelling was this strong; it had to be much worse for her friend.

Ducky did not mention the scent out of respect for her friend's feelings, "Sometimes even friends can snap at one another when things get tough. I remember snapping at Finder more than a few times even when I was a swimmer… but the important thing is how we go from there," she tilted her head in an inquisitive manner, "Did you two disagree on what you were going to do?"

"We didn't even get a chance to discuss anything. I asked what they were doing. He said talking about it would be a bit problematic. I responded disrespectfully. He left without even saying anything to me," Violet explained, sounding sadder as she continued, "He never does that. Sometimes I might end up getting a lecture that lasts until the Bright Circle rises the next day, but he never just walks away."

"Perhaps that is because what you said was not worthy of a lecture?" Ducky noted, "You are an adult now, Violet, and sometimes adults disagree and have misunderstandings. Dodger can't really criticize you for being upset about making a choice when he also hasn't made a choice yet."

"I still shouldn't have said it." Violet finally registered the last of what Ducky said. "He hasn't made a choice yet? Really? Did he say why?"

Ducky smiled sadly, "It is a big choice, Violet. I imagine that it is something that he needs to talk to Tracker about. If his sister wants to go elsewhere then he will have to decide if a pack of two is manageable," she hesitantly went closer and put a hand on Violet's shoulder, "Have you made a choice yet?"

"No. I don't know what to do. I want Dodger and Tracker to be safe more than anything. Even if I knew they were safe I still don't know anything about Thud's pack. And I don't know if you guys would let me stay here even for a little bit," Violet said more calmly than she thought she could.

"So you would want to spend some more time with us?" Ducky asked, noting the lukewarm response to Thud's pack, and the uncertainty about the possibility of joining Seeker's pack. It seemed as if Violet had shown her hand, even if she didn't realize her choice.

"Um, well, yes," Violet said, almost stumbling over the words. I can't hide anything, can I? The truth always comes out.

Ducky nodded, "Seeker mentioned that he would have no objections, but the question is what Tracker and Dodger will choose to do? We don't mind visitors during the Wet Times, but we can't afford to have them during the Dry Times," Ducky looked at Violet with a sympathetic expression, "We could stay here for at least six cycles of the Night Circle before you would see them again. Would you be alright for that span of time?"

"I guess I would. I've never been away from Dodger that long before," Violet replied, "I would've starved before even the first cycle was through."

Ducky was suddenly assaulted with memories from her original conversation with Tracker. Her mentioning of her relative helplessness put Tracker's protectiveness into sharp focus.

"Well, you are not the same fastbiter you were a mere cycle of the Night Circle ago. You now know how to hunt with a pack, and you are a healer-in-training. Never think that you are useless, Violet; any of us would be in rough shape if we had to fend for ourselves," he looked at Violet intensely, "If that is your true desire, Violet, to say with us for at least a while, then we will honor your request. In fact, I would consider it an honor. But there may be something that you could do that would make your brother feel better."

"What would that be?" Violet asked, an odd mixture of hesitant and eager.

Ducky smiled, "I think that your brother might be feeling a bit unsure of himself. I think hearing the choice from his own sister would make him feel better about it. It would also be a nice way for you to remind him of what he has done for you," she patted her on the shoulder, "The fact that you may be walking away for a while is not a sign that you are ungrateful; it is a sign that he has succeeded in ensuring his sister grew to adulthood. I think that would take a great weight off of his shoulders."

"It might give him a chance to relax, too," Violet said humorously, "According to Thud I shouldn't have lived even this long."

Ducky jerked back, horrified, "He said what?!"

"Um, nothing," Violet said, shrinking back, fearing she'd just landed herself in trouble again, "Forget I said anything."

Ducky sighed, "No, Violet. Tell me exactly what he said. Did he honestly suggest that you shouldn't be alive?"

"No. He just said he'd never seen a smell-blind fastbiter my age before. Apparently quite a few packs think my parents should've killed me." It's probably a good thing Dodger wasn't with me when Thud said that. That might have gone really badly.

Ducky immediately relaxed, "Heh… you see, Violet? When people are over-protective sometimes they do stupid things. I was just about to give Thud a piece of my mind," she then laughed slightly, "I guess Dodger doesn't have anything to fear with you here. I can over-react just as badly as he can!"

"Just don't get too good at sneaking, please," Violet said, "Dodger always made a point of showing up upwind of me, not that it really helped me, but it always scared me a bit how easy he can disappear."

Ducky rolled her eyes, "Reminds me of Taunt. He has a tendency to show up when you least expect him," she then changed her expression to a welcoming and comforting smile, "Well, Violet, are you ready to talk to you brother? I know it is not an easy decision that you have made, but waiting isn't going to make saying your decision any easier."

Violet took several deep calming breaths. "I guess I'm as ready as I'll ever be." Meaning I'm on the verge of fainting or running in the exact opposite direction screaming in terror. "I hope."

Ducky patted her on the shoulder again as she rose to her feet, "You will do fine. Once you have made your choice then Dodger and Tracker can make theirs," Ducky hesitated for a moment, "And Violet?"

"Yes?"

Ducky smiled, "Welcome to the pack."

---

The present:

The fastrunner struggled to keep his wits about him as he ran from his pursuers. Though he could not see them he knew that they had to be there… somewhere.

He jumped over the boulder as he slid down the silt of the stream, only to make a beeline straight towards his target. There was no reason to hide his scent in this mission. The enemy already knew where he was.

It was only when his goal was in sight that he permitted himself to catch his breath. Immediately he went about carrying out his new plan. Perhaps the fourth time would be the charm?

Oh, you've got to be kidding me. Orchid, you're not going to make things easier from starting farther from the original hole than your previous attempts, Mender thought in frustration even as she moved to make herself further hidden.

Orchid looked up, as if he heard something, before quickly continuing to work. His grunts of exertion were soon being replaced with groans of frustration as his attempt to make a new hole proved to be slow going. But how else was he going to get around Cynnil's strict instruction to not use the existing hole?

Come on, Orchid. Think this through, Mender silently encouraged, I can give you some time, but even if I fell asleep watching you someone else will find you soon.

It was then that Mender her slight movement behind her.

She glanced back to see Cynnil looking at her sadly. I guess time's up, Mender thought somewhat mournfully, Sorry Orchid. She reluctantly moved forward to pursue Orchid.

---

As Orchid sat back down on Hanging Rock he was of conflicted emotions. Even though he was on one of the highest points in his parents' territory he had never felt so low. He was so close… he could almost taste it. But all of his efforts had been in vain.

And he was soon running out of daylight.

I am going to fail. Not only am I going to fail, but I will have kept the pack up most of the night just for me to make a fool of myself.

He sighed sadly.

Maybe Nahoda was right.

"Everyone's back in position if you want to try again," Mender said, moving to sit beside him, "You've still got time."

Orchid nodded. "I'm still missing something. I guess I'm just not looking at it the right way."

"That would describe much of my life," Mender replied with a chuckle, "Try thinking about what you haven't tried yet. It might help."

Orchid considered this advice. "It is not so easy to consider things with a time limit. Or when you have a bunch of sneakers and biters under orders to chase me and then only give me a few moments to try anything." He groaned. "What was the purpose of this again? To think differently and to face my fear? Well you are seeing it. I hate to fail."

"Better to fail now than when it'll get you killed," Mender said, "Just keep trying. Right now you only fail if you give up, Orchid."

Orchid snorted. "Or if the Bright Circle greets me before success does. I wonder how to look at this… I tried to look at it from Screech's perspective." He shuddered at the memory of the childhood terror. "But that isn't enough… I wonder how Cynnil sees this?"

Now you're getting it, Orchid. Try something you haven't already. Mender couldn't help but smile as she got up and left the fastrunner alone again. Good luck, Orchid. Soon maybe I will be able to say the words that Haven once said to me.

The fastrunner sighed as he began to pace. Much like his now carnivorous older sister he tried to make Hanging Rock his thinking place. "What could I be missing? Cynnil said that the purpose was to face my fear and to challenge my fears… but what did Mom say?"

He looked over at the location of the cavern where his parents were surely sleeping. The fact that his mother had helped with this meant that her words to him were meant as a hint. But what was it that she said…

And remember that in the Mysterious Beyond you have to think in many ways to outsmart your foes. Only the ground fuzzy who thinks like a flyer can avoid the flyer's grasp.

Orchid shook his head. "Well I'm the ground fuzzy in that riddle, and the flyer would be Mender and the hidden runners. I already have tried to think like a fastbiter and that did not work so what if I…"

His eyes went wide as a smile suddenly appeared on his face. "Of course! It's so obvious!"

As he sprinted off into the distance he did not see his parents watch from their usual sleeping space in the nearby bluffs.

"Took him five attempts, and not six. It looks like I owe you a fish, my dear."

Pearl smiled. "He still has to outrun the pack."

Detras stretched widely before he returned her smile. "Trust me, Dear. Somehow I think this is a challenge they want him to win."

---

Buse nearly fell over his own feet as the fastrunner sprinted away from him. Before Orchid had been running as if he were being chased, but now he ran with all of the certainty of a predator.

Like he had his target firmly selected.

As a barked hiss emanated from behind him he broke off his pursuit and waited until Orchid was either captured or pursuing his return mission.

He smiled. Looks like only one more chase tonight. Good, I'm tired.

---

Orchid leapt over the hole of the old cavern as he focused on the object he needed. Something that would provide what his own meager claws could not.

The remnants of a horn.

He forced down the feeling of disgust as he took the remnants of what had once been a threehorn youngling and secured it in his hands. To solve this puzzle he would have to have the mind of a hidden runner and the heart of a fastbiter.

Now it was time for the hidden runner to come out.

He carefully positioned his body over where the end of the tunnel would be. It was hard to believe that a mere body length below him was the small cavern that had saved him and his sister from Screech's claws. He knew now that he was lucky that Screech only thought in the directness of his kind.

Orchid raised the horn.

With swift and brutal strikes he tore into the rock. He had not initially noticed the small cracks that heralded the weakness in the stone. But now he was looking at it with Cynnil's eyes. With grunts of exertion he continued his assault on the impediment below him.

When his arm sunk into the ground he nearly jumped in terror.

I'm in? I'm in!

With a swift bite to his own arm he plucked out one of his feathers and dropped it into the now exposed tunnel.

His victorious shout echoed across the land.

---

You just had to shout, didn't you? Mender thought, grinning despite her current exertions. She and her packmates were currently pursuing Orchid. Can you really call it pursuing if you're not trying to catch what you're following? Well, at least I'm not. Buse just looks like he's trying not to be left behind.

Buse gasped for air as Cynnil struggled to keep up as well. Despite having no difficulty catching him in the previous encounters he was giving the hidden runners quite the struggle.

And the only one who could catch him had no intentions of doing so.

With a pained grunt Orchid leapt and landed on the base of Hanging Rock before steadily climbing its height. It was only when he reached its peak and could see the territory around him that he finally collapsed into an exhausted heap.

He didn't notice that the others had slowed to a walk long before.

Well done, Orchid, Mender thought, only slightly less tired than her companions, I hope leaving your family isn't as messy as when I left mine.

It was then that she noticed that her pack were not the only ones present. Walking slowly behind, but seemingly keeping their distance, were four other fastbiters. The almost regal looking elder fastrunners who wore smiles of pride for their son, and the youthful faces of Arial and her mate. Their intentional keeping of distance had an obvious meaning.

You are part of their pack now. You are one of them.

"Orchid."

You earned this, Mender mentally congratulated her friend, You might be exhausted, but you did great. Hopefully Cynnil will let us all sleep now. She shifted her gaze from Cynnil approaching Orchid to Buse nearly asleep on his feet. As much as Taunt would want me to push him over... Instead she nudged her friend awake but didn't bother to hide a chuckle at the hidden runner's startelement.

Cynnil assisted Orchid to his feet as the fastrunner finally permitted himself to look at the assembled crowd. His face shined with elation for a moment, before turning slightly melancholy as he saw his parents keeping themselves somewhat behind. Now it finally hit him.

He was part of the pack.

"I will not ask you to forsake your old name, Orchid, as that is part of your family and your family is part of you. But it is the custom in fastbiter packs to take a new name. And our pack is part fastbiter." She tilted her head.

"Mender?"

I can't tell if she's trying to honor me or drive me crazy, Mender thought, I hadn't even thought about this. "Yes, Cynnil?" she asked neutrally, betraying none of her confusion.

"The naming custom is that a sharptooth with a pack name gives a new name to the new packmate, is that true?"

Orchid looked at Mender with more than a fair bit of confusion. It was obvious that he had not expected this.

"Well, Seeker did give me my name, and if I remember correctly Path gave him his..." Mender trailed off, trying to recall what she'd been told years ago.

"It is not a fastrunner custom to get new names upon joining a pack, but then again it is not a custom for fastrunners to join packs." Cynnil smiled. "So let's get this custom started… Orchid arise."

Hesitantly Orchid rose to his feet, as his family looked on. It was only now that he realized that the pack.. His pack… had gathered around him in a circle.

"Today you have passed your challenge, and unlike any other fastrunner before you have joined a pack not out of necessity, but of your own free will. Perhaps Fate has ordained it," Cynnil intoned.

Mender couldn't help but roll her eyes. I might ask my ancestors for help sometimes, but Cynnil still hasn't explained this Fate thing.

"Today you have truly become one with our pack and have earned your new name. A name suitable for our pack."

Then there was silence for several moments as Cynnil gestured for Mender to take her place. Now the time of naming had come.

Mender hesitantly stepped forward, her eyes now firmly fixed on the new packmate. She struggled to hide her nervousness, but a slight twitch in her tail gave it away. Now the sacred duty had fallen upon her for the first time. A duty normally given to pack leaders.

She had no idea how to proceed.

"What scares you most about getting a new name, Orchid?" Mender forced out as if she were projecting her own fears upon him.

Orchid swallowed. "I fear losing what I was. What my parents have given me."

It seems Staza had a similar fear, Mender thought, Wait... That gives me an idea!

"Your new name shall reflect your old self in a new light. You shall be called, Rarqhax."

Orchid's eyes went wide as he tried to comprehend how he was even going to pronounce the word.

"Or…" Mender said with a smile. "You can simply use the sharptooth translation of that hidden runner word."

Orchid looked bewildered as he tried to silently pronounce the word. "And what is that?"

"Orchid."

As the two hidden runners began to chuckle at the fastrunner's bemused expression as it went from confusion, to annoyance, and then to amusement and relief, Mender took the opportunity to say something that was long overdue.

"Welcome to the pack."

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Thanks for the reviews, everyone! Before I respond to your reviews I figured it would be appropriate to point something else about this chapter and how this story has been developed. This story as I am sure you are aware by now began its life as a roleplay, which form the basis of the past scenes. Thus far we have been lucky to have a nice flow in the past scenes that still reads like a story, but in this chapter we have encountered the first instance where an overly long (in my opinion) piece of dialogue could not be truncated or excised without removing important context. The Taunt/Dodger conversation simply needed to take place. I am sure this odd bit of pacing will be noticeable to some of you, and I just wanted you all to know that it did not escape our attention. If any of you decide to use the "roleplay into story" method just keep in mind this one potential weakness. It is something that Historian and I will be more cautious about in the future.

As always I would like to thank my co-author, Historian1912, and our beta-reader, Nimbus01 for their contributions to this chapter.

bryan mccloud: Oh, the rainbowfaces have most certainly screwed up a bit with showing fire to their children at this point. We will find out in the next chapter a bir of their reasoning but if the knowledge of fire leaks out then it can change everything. I wonder what the agricultural revolution would look like with dinosaurs... hmm...

gordhanx: Thank you for the detailed response. (: I am glad that you found the training to not be boring as that was one of my major concerns when I was looking over those scenes. Historian and I tried to make sure that those scenes flowed well and contributed to the overall narrative. I hope that we have succeeded in doing the same with this chapter, but I am still a bit concerned. There are always bound to be pacing concerns when a roleplay is modified for the purposes of a story.

Nimbus01: I am glad to hear that you feel that both storylines now carry equal weight. It was a lingering concern for me that the present story would begin to appear to be a minor point to the past story, when the present story needs to shine for the shake of the overall narrative of the story. And, not to spoil anything, you are quite like about the events now being the sparks that ignite bigger fires later on. And that is not just a fire pun...

keijo6: Mender does indeed slowly change from the insecure Violet to her more confident adult self, but one can still see the original Violet there. Some of that social awkwardness will never go away. d-; But I can certainly understand why Violet's personality might be a bit annoying due to the insecurity. But, as it has been said, a long journey begins with a single step. As for the Ovie storyline... we will see how the connects soon enough. I look forward to your thoughts about this chapter and the overall pacing.

Thanks, everyone! I look forward to hearing your thoughts and suggestions!