"When I die, this hunting party will die with me."
Calling Dawn looked at his mate steadily. "And what is your proposition for feeding the next generation? I do not blame you. I do not think any of the party desires to take your place, but we cannot simply leave the young ones to organize themselves."
"We'll train them, of course!" Fall of Snow veritably purred. "I have this all planned out love, I promise. Thala's advise on apprenticing the pups was quite wise."
"I'm glad; has there been a marked improvement in progress?"
Fall of Snow nodded, drawing her fluffy tail closer. "Quite. We already have two excellent prospects, Boop and Flick...and..."
Calling Dawn continued to eye her steadily. "Go on."
"We believe it would be in his best interest for Howl to train as a hunter, for now." Fall of Snow finished.
Calling Dawn hummed softly, glancing through the trees surrounding the pair's den.
Ultimately, Howl's path was Calling Dawn's to decide, even though he was both their adopted pup; he was, after all Calling Dawn's prodigy. Calling Dawn had been cultivating his education for one express purpose; to become the next leader of Hollow Song.
Finally, the male nodded.
"Fine, then. See he is well looked after. Do not let any undue harm come to him."
Fall of Snow guffawed.
"Of course we'll be careful, darling. I take excellent care of my hunters."
A small smile.
"I know you do." Calling Dawn grunted, rising to his paws. But I worry about our son.
The words were left unspoken, but Calling Dawn wasn't just worried about the health of his prodigy; as aloof as he seemed at times, he truly cared about his pups- and the rest of the pack. As far as he was concerned, they were all his pups.
Fall of Snow smiled back. "Of course, Calling Dawn; you're welcome to check in on him as needed."
Hunter 
Hunter