Yes, that's the spot. The chill of the snow caused him to shiver and all he could think about was how cold he was. Which was better than thinking of the alternative. He could have lain like that for hours but, as fate would have it, he was not allowed that luxury. A muffled voice found its way to him through the thick snow and he realized how silly he must have looked. Digging his claws into the powder, he pulled and pushed until his muzzle was set free, causing him to land on his rump. Shaking the snow from his fur, it took the king a moment before he could see exactly who it was that caught him in such a state. For a split moment, the red and black fur made him think it was Aster and his tail was sent flying into a happy wave, but as his vision came to him, he could see it was not her. Instead, the young Jinx formed from the fuzzy figure.
Clearing his throat and assuming a more kingly figure, he stood before her with his chest puffed out slightly and his tail hovering above his back. "Greetings, Jinx. I apologize for my rudeness I was…" He hesitated a moment, trying to think of an excuse as to why he was face first in the snow. Somehow, he didn't think she would believe the truth. "Digging for voles. But it seems the pesky creatures have burrowed too deep for me to catch. To what do I owe the pleasure of your company?" He listened to her repeat her report with attentive eyes, hoping she would forget what she had seen. Then… the wind shifted.
Her scent was sent blowing his way and it was heavenly. She was of age, in perfect health, and in heat. It was like Fate was testing him, sending all It could to make him fall of the path. Instinct demanded that he, the alpha, help birth a royal litter that would someday grow and take the throne when he was too old to rule. It taunted him and plagued him. But thus far, Halcyon had been loyal and even if Fate had brought him a perfect candidate on a silver platter, he would fight every urge. Aster was his one and only.
It took a moment for the king to realize Jinx had stopped talking and was eyeing him curiously. Clearing his throat again and standing tall, Halcyon nodded his approval of the young wolfess' actions as of late. "Well done, Jinx. You have done what I have asked and I couldn't be more proud. Asteraia has found a new ally, one that belonged to my father long ago. Diveen is a powerful pack to have stand on our side and together with Taviora and Iromar, we will continue to strengthen our bonds."
He lowered his tail, growing tired of the formalities and offered the young wolf a smile. "I have also heard that you have made yourself known to many of our pack mates. It's good to know that we are growing as a family unit, especially in these dangerous times. Jinx, I see no reason why you should not be our Elder." The alpha chuckled at the rank and the wolf who was still so young that would be taking it. Sitting on his haunches, he looked the wolfess up and down and tilted his head to the side. "So, Elder, tell me, what do you seen in Asteraia's future?"