Steven pricked his ears, "Nah, I appreciate it, but I honestly don't think she likes me" He murmered, staring at the circle reflection in the water.

Beku shook his head.

"She has spoken with me about you. She has mentioned needing a father for me. She has talked about liking a certain male. You may not think so, but I know so. How about this. Tomorrow morning, before the beta naming ceremony, ask her about it. If nothing else, I can let my mind to rest about you two."

Steven nodded, "Okay, I'll ask her" he agreed, feeling a sudden burst of confidence, "Thanks Beku, and remind me to give you more Hunting lessons, you'll be the best in the back... second best, besides me, that is" Steven chuckled, "Goodnight Beku" Steven murmered, laying his head on his paws and sleeping under the stars.

Beku nodded.

"Don't worry, I will." He watched Steven fall asleep by the lake. Sighing, he stared up at the stars, picking out constellations.

~

Hours later, before the sun rose, he stood and swam out to the middle of the lake where the moon shone. A rock stuck out of the water and he climbed onto it. The light seemed to brighten as he stood and howled. The howl was loud and seemed to bounce off of everything.

Steven groaned, waking up as a howl split the sky, his instinct told him to howl back, so he let out a long, spiritual howl. After he had finished, panting, he glanced to who had howled. There, was Beku, on a rock in the center of the lake, Steven wagged, then padded back to camp.

Beku turned his head as he heard another howl like his. Steven was on the shore, releasing it. Once he was done the male wagged his tail and went back to camp.

Beku jumped off of the rock and swam back to shore. Shaking himself, he yawned and followed the other wolf. After he arrived in camp he lay back down in the trainees den and slept fitfully until dawn.

Steven lay in the moonlight, the silver light dancing on his pelt. He couldn't wait until Oak got up.

Oak yawned, stretched, then sat up, blinking. She stood and glanced out of the den. A wolf or two was up, not many. The other females were asleep.

She stepped out and padded lightly through the camp. She slowed near the center of the camp and stopped.

Steven padded into camp besides Toklo and warmed himself in the early morning sun.

Oak spotted Steven and walked over to him.

"Mornin'. How are you doing?"