The scent coming off this young wolf was sharp and pungent, a clear sign he was scared. This made the alpha's brow furrow in concern. While he liked to think of Asteraia as a relatively peaceful pack, he knew that something's could be considered frightening here. There were the huge bison that thundered along the plains and the roaring thunderstorms that shook the earth. It wasn't until Nike actually spoke that Halcyon understood the true meaning of his worries.

Aster.

Once again, the name of his mate made him hold a deep growl of frustration. The young and brash queen was beginning to form a habit of tainting Asteraia's good name. First, Halcyon had learned she had attempted to steal the alpha of Glorall! Now, the ocean pack was on high alert and watching the plains for any future deceptions. He couldn't blame them. The king was sure there was a purpose behind Aster's methods, but it still made him angry to think she would do something so foolishly bold.

Now he discovered that she had stolen a wolf from the free lands and threatened him into submission. Unable to hide his annoyance, Halcyon snorted loudly and closed his eyes, forcing himself to breathe easier. When he opened his eyes again, he signed and gave a slight bow of his head. "Allow me to apologize for the way you have been treated, Nike. We do not hold wolves prisoner within our borders, unless, of course, they are enemies of Asteraia. You are no enemy and I see no reason for you to stay."

Turning his head to face the thick forest that surrounded much of the pack, Halcyon wondered if the boy's mother was somewhere in there. Was she waiting for him to return? Why, if that was the case, did she not come for her child when he was first taken? These questions and many more filled the king's mind as he wondered about Nike's story. But, the one thing he was sure of was he freedom. Standing up, Halcyon took a few steps back from the borders and away from the pure white wolf. "As alpha of Asteraia, I release you, Nike. Go now and know that you and your mother will no longer be targeted by any wolves under my command. You both shall be under my protection, if you so desire. I am sorry for the actions of my mate. I will speak with her to ensure this does not happen again."

The russet king turned, walking away from the white boy. Pausing a moment, he looked back a moment to see if Nike had run or if he had chosen to stay.