Caspian's Legacy: The Scent of Truth (book two)

Chapter four: Unlikely Connections

Cedar couldn't care less about the two humans that he and Jace had met, and he didn't want to talk about it anymore. He was more interested in finding a quiet spot to shift back into his wolf form and enjoy the rest of the day. They found a secluded spot beneath the canopy of a large oak tree where they could change without being disturbed. Once they were both in their wolf forms, they felt a sense of freedom and comfort that was hard to describe to humans.

"It feels so good to be back!" Cedar sighed contentedly, rolling onto his back and stretching his powerful limbs. The grass tickled his fur as he reveled in the sensation of being free from human form. Jace nodded in agreement, savoring the warmth of the sun on his fur as he surveyed the beach through narrowed eyes. Even though they were far away from the prying eyes of humans, they couldn't help but feel a little bit uneasy about the encounter they'd just had.

"I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but we need to check on Luna and Caspian." Jace said, his voice low and gruff. The mention of his mate and pup seemed to ground him, reminding him of what was truly important. They exchanged one last glance before they both took off in long, graceful bounds, disappearing into the trees.

Cedar almost forgot about the new arrival to the pack as he bounded through the forest with Jace. His mind was focused on Luna and Caspian, worrying about how they were doing without him. He knew that they had been taken care of by the others while he was gone, but he couldn't help but feel a responsibility to make sure they were alright. As they ran, he caught sight of the familiar shapes of their home through the trees. His heart skipped a beat with excitement and relief.

"that's them!" Jace exclaimed, pointing to a group of wolves playing with a small pup near their den. They had arrived at their home, and it was clear that things were back to normal. Cedar's heart swelled with relief and happiness as he spotted Luna and Caspian amongst the other wolves. They seemed to be enjoying themselves, chasing each other around a small clearing near the den entrance. The sight of them brought a smile to his face and warmth to his heart.

"Jace must be so lucky to have a family of his own," Cedar thought to himself, watching Luna and Caspian play together. It was true that Jace had found his mate in Luna, and they had had a pup, Caspian, not too long ago. Seeing them together like this filled Cedar with a mix of joy and envy. He knew that he would find his mate one day, but for now, he was content to be a part of the pack and to help protect and care for Luna, Caspian, and the others.

"you're back!" Luna greeted him; she picked up her son with her powerful jaws and brought him closer to Jace. "Yes, we're back. How were things while we were gone?" Jace asked, his voice gentle and protective. He bent down to get a better look at Caspian, who was now sniffing at his legs curiously.

"Surprisingly, it turned out better than we hoped," Luna replied, her tail wagging slightly. "While you were gone, I had a talk with Talvi, and she agreed to take on more of a maternal role in looking after Caspian, especially when you and Jace are not around. She's done a wonderful job, and I think you both should thank her," she explained, nodding toward the larger she-wolf who was standing nearby.

Talvi's amber eyes lit up like the stars above as she heard Luna's words. "It's nothing, really. I'm just happy to help," she said modestly. Jace smiled at her, grateful for her kindness. He knew that not all wolves would be willing to step in and take care of another's pup, even if it was for a short while.

"Thank you so much for helping out with Caspian; he is only fourteen days old already!" Jace said, his voice filled with gratitude. Talvi smiled warmly at him, her amber eyes twinkling with affection. "It's been my pleasure. He's such a cute little thing. I'm sure you'll be just as great of a father as Jace has been." She nodded over at Cedar, who was watching the exchange with a proud smile on his face.