On her last night as Alpha, Scoria surveyed her pack with satisfaction. There had been rough times, lean times when it was all she could do to keep wolves from leaving. To hold on to her pack and keep them alive. But she had always been able to rely on her loyal wolves. They worked hard, and, under her guidance, the pack had grown and flourished. As senior hunters retired, younger ones rose to take their places. Scouts passed on their knowledge and explored new areas for them to hunt and live. And her pupsitters had raised each generation of pups and kept them safe. And her loyal mate. Coal. He had been with her since the beginning, and together they had raised five beautiful pups, who now ran through the woods hunting together. Then, there was the new wolf. He was young, but strong, and, in the short time she'd know him, he had demonstrated fantastic leadership skills. He would lead the pack well when she was gone. Scoria was happy with where she was leaving her pack. They were strong and would survive long after she had left. She lied down and closed her eyes with a sigh. She missed Coal, as he had joined their ancestors only a half moon before. She would be with him soon though, and she was looking forward to running with him once more.
