In the faint light of dawn, a howl rang out across the mountains. It was a call, a summons, and invitation to the warriors of the pack. Those who were strong of body and mind were asked to step forward, to show their potential to fill the paw steps of a wolf who had served the mountains for over eleven years. Perhaps it was the time during the recent usurper's reign, when he had been cast from his role and deemed unworthy to be called pack, that had brought a realization of Sleekwing's age to the forefront of his mind. Though he still felt he had many good years left in him, and knew that he was capable to face down any threat that presented itself within the realm he had long sworn to protect, he knew that it was time to step down. There was promise within the ranks of younger wolves, but with the rank so long filled by the heather streaked warrior, what room did they have to move up and make their own way in life?

It was for that reason and many others that Sleekwing called upon those who saw themselves as fit enough to assume the role of master warrior when he stepped down. He would never allow the position of Castellan to remain vacant, and so he would not abdicate his title until he knew that another was ready to take his place. The howl had lifted from along the southern borders of Spirane, and as the call faded on the early morning breeze Sleekwing stepped towards the headwaters of the Aplos River. Glancing down into their still surface, he saw the face of an old wolf looking back at him. Fifteen years old was certainly not ancient, but the prime of his life was quickly slipping away from him. But he did not mourn the loss of his youth, instead smiling down at the face that had gained not only age but wisdom in the many years it had graced the mountainside.

Turning back towards the pack lands, he stood with the headwaters at his back as he waited for those brave enough to put themselves out there and try for the position to arrive. Perhaps there would be many who would vie for the honor to be the first line of defense in Spirane, responsible for the pack's safety, and then again perhaps no one would come. If the latter were the case, he would continue on his way, taking up the border patrol that was his livelihood. But even if only one wolf came forward, he would not miss the opportunity to learn about them and test their will. If any wolves came to stand before him, Sleekwing would nod to each of them in turn. when it was apparent that all who would come had arrived, he said, "The time has come for me to step down, and for another to step forward to serve as the Castellan of the Mountain. But I do not relinquish the title easily. If you are not willing to lay your life on the line to ensure the safety of the wolf standing next to you, or a pup whose name you do not know but is nestled within a den upon the mountainside, then return to your beds now - I will pass no judgment against you."