It wasn’t so much a peaceful nap as it was a painful rest. Though the healer of Asteraia had done all she could to help him heal, he had left before she could finish her treatments. His multiple wounds, especially the deep tear across his throat, throbbed with each breath. When the pack had gathered to show him they were still with him as he became the new leader of Iromar he had tried to hide the obvious pain he felt. They needed to see he was a strong wolf, one who wouldn’t let a simple thing as a flesh wound stop him from his duties. However, he was grateful when everyone went their separate ways and Halcyon was left to whine quietly to himself in the privacy of his den.

It had only been a few days since Athine had stepped down from her throne and passed the crown to the russet boy, but it still felt surreal. One day, he had woken up the lost prince and the next he had gone to bed as a king. Even now, he still wondered if the previous Empress had made the right decision. What if he wasn’t up to the task? What if he failed them all? With a small bark at himself, Halcyon cut the thoughts where they were and cast them from his mind. No, now was not the time to doubt himself. Athine was a wise wolf and her judgment had always been valued. She knew he could do it so he had to believe her.

Pine’s sudden call erupted from close by, causing a flock of birds to scatter to the winds. Halcyon’s ears lifted high and he rose from his resting place next to the opening of his den. Eyes shut tight for a moment as the agony swept through his body for several moments, then, he opened them and took a deep breath. It was time for him to partake of his first duty as king. He moved slowly, both from the wounds and knowing that his wolves had the situation under control. Soon, he found them. Pine and Despoina moved between a stranger, the older of the two looking rather upset about the male. Honey colored eyes surveyed the situation for a moment before small paws brought him into view of the others.

Halcyon was not, and would never be, an intimidating wolf. His body was smaller than most others, but he did his best to show he was in charge of this pack. Tail raised high and eyes never leaving the other, he moved closer until he was only a few steps away. "What’s going on here? Who is this wolf and why do you bare your teeth at him, Despoina?" It was not an accusation, but a simple question. Halcyon trusted his new Marauder and if she felt the newcomer was a threat than he would be judged until he could prove himself otherwise. Pine, on the other hand, looked confused and unsure of the situation. Questioning eyes fell on her for a moment, but he didn’t say anything. Instead, he returned his gaze back to the stranger and nodded. "I am Halcyon, the alpha of Iromar. Speak your peace, stranger, I am listening."