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Raon and Jarek came to the door of Raizac's tent, located outside the camp, when the sky was already almost completely painted black. The two hesitated a little before the entrance, as if they didn't know exactly what to do or how they should appear before the caravan leader, until they heard the powerful voice of the bull behind the canvas.

-Don't stand in the doorway -he said, and Raon thought again that sometimes, his words seemed to tremble -. Enter, come in.

The Human, feeling somewhat nervous, briefly looked at Jarek, who tried to smile with an assurance that was far from feeling himself. Actually, none of them knew exactly what they had been summoned there for.

Finally, the large copper coated wolf took the initiative and set out to pull back the curtain covering the door, and casting a curious look inside before entering unsteadily. Raon, after taking a deep breath, decided to follow him.

As soon as he entered and saw that they were not the only ones that Raizac had summoned so urgently to share something, he realized that the situation was more serious than he had initially thought.

-Jarek. Raon -the leader of the caravan greeted them, with a motion of one of his huge hooves -. Glad to know that you decided to come. We were expecting you.

Raon nodded, slowly, discreetly looking around inside the tent to analyze everything in detail. The tent of the caravan leader was, of course, larger than the rest, but the youth sensed that this was just so he could receive visitors and have a space to have those meetings, not for his own personal enjoyment. Therefore, the inside of the tent was full of supports to keep the structure stable and the Human took special care where he placed his foot before advancing a few steps, head down to avoid touching the roof, and sit alongside Jarek.

As he had found out before, they were not the only ones who had been called that night to Raizac's tent. Rukj was also inside the tent, with a serious and inscrutable look, and Loki, whose paws were closed tightly around the leather bag that Raon had to stick his neck out for. Also there was one there, judging by the resemblance, that was quite possibly Raizac's son, with arms crossed over his chest and a solemn expression. He shared with his father that stout and imposing look that gave him a very intimidating appearance, and yet at the same time he had that same warm expression that felt, very much like, he was a Beast that could be trusted.

Also, there was another Beast present in the tent, someone completely different from anything he had seen before and had caught Raon's attention from the first moment.

By elimination, he must belong to the species of hares, since it was the only one that the Human had not gotten to know yet. The Beast, covered with a silky black coat, was very small and had soft delicate features, with a slim figure that made him seem much more fragile than any of the others present. His eyes, very large and deep, penetrating eyes, watched the scene carefully, not wanting to miss a single detail of what was happening.

But what caught Raon's attention were the ears.

These were of an unusual size, if not disproportionately so, and remained upright on both sides of the head. With such ears, the Human could not help wondering if hares would be able to hear more than the rest of the species, or could perceive what others could not. Finally, he shook his head trying to bury his own curiosity, but did not look away. Although Loki's whiskers had kept him intrigued for quite a while, the ears of the strange creature were all he could focus on during the next few minutes.

-Well, well -then Raizac began, clearing his throat -. I don't think we really need us to introduce ourselves, but it would not hurt to briefly go over our identities before we start talking about this issue -he paused, while Raon silently wondered what the caravan leader meant by those words -. First of all and, if he doesn't mind too much being first, Rukj Jirnagherr -he said, pointing to the black wolf who raised an eyebrow slightly -. Traitor and deserter for some of our own.

-You're wrong, Raizac -the wolf corrected him, gently -. For most of you, my head should be displayed in the town square of Frostmoon. If you took a vote...

-All right, all right -Raizac interrupted, with a tired smile -. Well... From what I see, you are still as bitter as ever.

-I am realistic -Rukj replied simply, without giving it any great importance, but then shifted his gaze to the floor and did not say a word.

Raizac remained silent for a moment, still staring at the black wolf, before letting out a sigh and switched to Raon, who was somewhat embarrassed by the intensity with which he seemed to watch him.

-And you -murmured the bull, still looking -, you're the Human he raised up. The only Human who, until now, has grown up with the Beasts from birth, one of the lucky few who have managed to survive in this land for so long. Your name is Raon, isn't it?

-That's the name Rukj gave me -said the youth, with a nod, looking cautiously towards the bull.

-I thought so. And you -Raizac continued, this time referring to Jarek -, you too are special in your own way, right?

The aforementioned wolf took a moment to answer, taken aback.

-Special? -he repeated, not understanding what he meant -. What ... what do you mean?

-Maybe I'm wrong -Raizac seemed to recoil, with a smirk that clearly demonstrated that he knew that wasn't the case -, but, if I have not been misinformed, you are the wolf whose family sheltered a Human in their home for nearly twenty years, aren't you?

As if he had heard a death sentence, Jarek paled and closed his paws tightly around the blankets which he had sat on.

He wasn't the only one who was taken by surprise by that revelation. Although everyone there seemed to be aware of where the large copper furred wolf had been and what had happened when he had fled to Frostmoon, yet someone had not dared to ask him about it. And, upon hearing those words, Raon could not help but turn to his companion, his mouth open, and give him a long questioning look.

-But... but... -he uttered, not knowing exactly what to say -... A Human? Your family?

Jarek did not respond.

The Human, realizing it would take some time for him to give a coherent answer, turned to the rest of those present and, not knowing exactly if he should be outraged or surprised, asked:

-All of you knew about this but me?

-Apparently, Jarek's family hid a human refugee in their home -Rukj replied, without looking away from the other wolf, who did not seem to feel at all comfortable with that situation -. As soon as they discovered it, the inhabitants of Frostmoon decided to take revenge and burned the house down... with the family still inside.

Raon swallowed briefly glancing towards Jarek, who had pinned his eyes to the ground and seemed to be trembling slightly, with such a dejected look that the youth almost shuddered. He had never seen him like that.

Now it all fit. Why Jarek had been left to die in the Lands of the Beasts, how he had been trapped by the Trackers and why, as soon as he got up he had tried to attack Raon... hatred and bloodlust he had seen in the last few days had made him lose confidence in any other living creature. Moreover, it also explained his irrational fear of fire, the fear he had never explained to Raon, but that the Human could clearly read in each of the fearful glances the wolf had given to the remains of their fires.

For a moment, all his desire to ask why he had not been told before vanished and instead, there was only the need to comfort and assure him that... What? What could he do to help? In the end, not much more giving his support, as they both knew that Jarek's family would never return and that was what really hurt most. Still, at that moment... he would have given anything to alleviate his pain.

• ...but this wolf survived -Raizac completed, half aloud -. I'm very sorry. Perhaps I should not have said it so bluntly.

-Raizac, you know as well as I that it is necessary to keep this in mind for our later discussion -Rukj snorted, looking away. Apparently, he did not like that scene -. It may not be pleasant, but the fact that your family would protect a man is essential for...

-... it was a woman -Jarek interrupted him with a whisper.

All eyes turned towards the large copper coated wolf, who continued oblivious to all this, his eyes still fixed on the tent floor.

-It was ... a woman -he repeated, after a few seconds, looking up with damp eyes and staring at Raizac. His voice was trembling slightly -. She came to our home five years before I was born. She was like... like a second mother to me. When the others found out...

-You don't have to talk about it if you don't want to -Loki quickly said timidly, earning a sidelong glance from Rukj -. It is not... well we force him to do so...

-Anyway -interrupted Raizac, returning to the conversation -, that shows that you are not a normal wolf. To take a risk for someone of another race... is something that very few would do today. It is already difficult to find someone who tolerates them...

Raon, who could not stop looking at Jarek with a lump in his throat, felt the weight of that last statement sinking into his soul until it hurt. He was, after all, a Human. By one of their own, Jarek had lost everything he had: his family, his home, his friends... even, surely, the possibility of someday returning to settle in any city of Beasts. Like Rukj, who had also had sacrificed everything for his sake, he was just an outlaw. A fugitive, a traitor.

For him and the other Humans.

Then, on impulse, he reached out and took one of Jarek's paws in his hands, trying to infuse some warmth, or trust, or just to let him know he was there, by his side, and he will never stop supporting him... he may never find a rational reason why he did something like this, but the intense look of appreciation that the copper-furred wolf gave him then was enough to let him know it was worth it.

-Good... What was I talking about? -Raizac asked, thoughtfully scratching his head with one of his hooves -. Ah, yes. Loki is also with us this evening; he was sent by the Kara's Cubs Order... the same mission that we are all gathered here together for.

Raon, despite feeling somewhat distant from the conversation from his contact with Jarek, could not help but hear those words and wonder, yet again, what were the reasons that the lynx was here with them... and what was it that he kept in this mysterious leather pouch.

-Next is Inoa -the bull continued, referring to the hare sitting next to the boy -, another member of the Kara's Cubs Order, who has been traveling with us for several weeks... if not for their help we would not have known who you are, so, in a way, we should be grateful.

-I am the one who is grateful, Raizac -the hare replied, his voice soft, slightly shrill and clear as the sound of melting snow as it slides down the mountains -. If not for you, none of this would be possible. And we would not have found the two links in time...

<<Links?>> Raon wondered, confused, while gently pressing Jarek's paw in his hands, trying to reassure both the wolf and himself. For some reason, that word did not give him good feelings...

-Well, your company is always welcome in our caravan -the bull replied, nodding -. To my right is Ailec, my son and successor, and will soon to be the leader of this caravan...

-Soon? -Rukj repeated, raising an eyebrow quizzically -. You are not that old, Raizac.

-I also have said so many times -intervened at this point the other bull, speaking for the first time since they had entered. His voice was deep and vibrant like a hammer on a rock like that of his father, but with the proper tone for a boy his age -. He making way to me before his path is finished.

-There will come a time when I am too old to keep running all this, Ailec -Raizac reminded him, and his voice was tinged with fatigue for a few seconds -. It will come. So, like it or not, you will have to take my place.

-And I will, when the time comes -Ailec replied, with some stubbornness -. But not before it's time.

Inoa let out an amusing giggle, as if he had heard that argument many times, and Raon gave a long look at the hare, trying to pay more attention. He'd never seen one before and, therefore, could not be sure, but he could have sworn that this hare was a female. If he was right, this might have been the first female he had met in all his life.

-Well -sighed Raizac, deliberately ignoring his son and re-focusing on the topic of conversation -. Let us go fast and get right to the issue, then, we must talk about Loki's mission and the role of these two youngsters in it.

And, to finish the sentence, he pointed with a hoof to Jarek and Raon, who received the gesture with some surprise.

-Us? -asked the wolf, undecided -. A role in... a mission?

-Maybe Loki should be the one who explains it -Rukj gently intervened at that time -. He knows better than anyone what it is. And he is the one that should do it; after all, it was entrusted to him.

All eyes turned then to the lynx, who seemed to feel somewhat embarrassed by all the attention, and looked away from them, his eyes staring down at the ground, ashamed.

-Right - he said, quietly -. My... my mission was to convey this message to the two links, decrypt the contents of the bag and explain to them what to do.

-Who are the links? -Raon asked, unable to contain himself any longer -. What does this have to do with us?

-You two are the links of the Chain -Loki explained, looking up and fixing his gaze on him -. A Human raised by a Beast and a Beast raised by a Human. You are the future of our world, or at least the possibility of ending this senseless war that we have faced for so long.

Raon blinked, without stopping to understand what the lynx meant.

-I do not understand -he said, confused -. What is the Chain? And how are we supposed to end... the war between Humans and Beasts?

-The Chain is the tie that will restore the Web -Inoa intervened speaking, although somewhat ambiguously -. And all of us are part of the Web, Beasts and Humans, all united in harmony. Actually, it is more than a metaphor to explain to you will be who return the world to the peace than existed before.

-Like Aron the Vindicator did long ago? -Ailec asked, trying to help.

-Yes -Loki said, giving him a grateful smile -. But this time, hopefully permanently.

There was a short silence, which was quickly broken by Jarek.

-And... could someone explain how a Human and a wolf about fourteen years old would get that? -he asked, with some uncertainty -. That we have been raised by Human or Beasts does not makes us stronger than others or give us any special skills, right?

-I can attest to that -Rukj nodded, causing the other wolf let out a low growl.

Loki hesitated for a moment, before finding the answer he was looking for.

-No, of course not -he said softly -. But... according to the legends of Kara's Cubs Order there is a special bond between you and Raon. It's as if you were... connected in some way. Kara's Mother, in the days when he still lived, wove a connection between their chosen so that, in this way, they could better understand the other race... and so they have no problems in finding the truth about our origin and showing it to the world.

Raon understood.

-A bond? -he asked, his head felt like clarified many questions. Before proceeding, he exchanged a quick glance with Jarek, who seemed to be thinking the same as him.

-Right. In fact you should have already noticed -answered the lynx, giving him a long look -. Are you not able to understand each other better? Do not you feel sometimes... as if you were attached to each other?

-I think I can answer that question -Rukj interrupted, hoarsely, and while Raon and Jerek looked on with surprise, added -. Yes. I may not be involved in it, but I know Raon well and I know that he has noticed that same bond. When we found ourselves with the Trackers who had captured Jarek, he did not think twice before jumping to his aid, even knowing he was at a disadvantage. It was stupid, but now I see the sense of it.

-True -recalled Raon, blinking several times, with surprise. He would never have believed it possible that the same feeling that made him feel so close to the wolf when he touched Jarek had almost cost him his life -. I'd forgotten.

-And then, after we returned from Frostmoon and we found that the cave was occupied - continued the black wolf, giving him a look of understanding -, he decided that only by being discovered did he have any chance of saving him. In both cases, it almost felt like he was suffering from what was happening to Jarek.

There was a long and tense silence, during which Jarek and Raon exchanged a series of intense looks. Finally, the Human dropped his eyes toward the door, unable to continue starring into those deep emerald eyes longer.

-Is that true? -the copper-furred wolf asked gently -. You risked so much for me?

• Yes -Raon answered in a faint voice.

He said nothing more.

For a moment, the entire tent remained silent, staring at the two boys. Raon's hands still surrounded the wolf's paw, and without knowing why, the he could not help feeling a little nervous at the thought that all these people were watching while that happened. In any case, the last thing he wanted was for them to leave, because he was afraid that, if he did, Jarek would crumble again. And besides, the feeling was so soothing...

-Well -Loki went on after a few seconds that seemed eternal -, in the tradition of Kara's Cubs Order, there is a way to find out how the war started between Humans and Beasts and to find our origins and to end the conflict. I... in theory, I'm the manager to show you the way until you find the answers. You two will be responsible for doing so... and showing them to the rest.

-But... that's impossible... -Raon muttered, shaking his head -. How could we...?

-Wait, Raon. Remember what you told me a few days ago in the cave? -the wolf interrupted him at that moment, giving him an intense look -. You said that someone had to change the world, so it would not be so disheartening.

-But it's absurd -Raon replied, shaking his head -. Please Jarek, can you explain what possibilities to change the world a wolf and a Human who are not even allowed to freely travel in the Land of Beasts have? If anyone saw us, they would kill us. It is stupid to think that we have any chance to change something, even if your Order is so set on it -he emphasized, turning back to Loki, frowning.

-But, Mother Kara... -Inoa began, trying to calm the young Human.

-Mother Kara does not know Jarek or me -the youth said, with a sigh -. And, moreover, her choice seems pretty selfish. If she was so keen to change the world, and if she knew how to do it, why not simply do it instead entrusting us to do? I feel like I'm the... gofer of someone who I have never met. And it is not a simple task either.

Loki received these words with a clear expression of disappointment; he had not been waiting for one of the links in the Chain to respond with that. A few seconds after he kept staring at the Human he looked toward the ground and gently said:

-I suppose you're right. The Order can't force you to do something.

-And, even if they could, what are the chances that I could get it? -Raon asked, raising his hands, feeling somewhat weary -. I don't know, Loki... I'm no different from any other Human, I think, nor do I have any sort of special ability that allows me to stand out from them. If we could change the world, someone would have done so already... Don't you think so?

There was a long silence, in which the eyes of all present went from Raon to Loki the young lynx, again and again, as if he still continued arguing loudly. Raizac watched with some interest, while at his side, his son seemed impatient. Inoa gently shook her head while biting her lower lip, and continued looking at Raon and Jarek thoughtfully.

If the Human had not been so fascinated by the deep emerald eyes, he would have discovered that he was being watched with some sadness and even... disappointment.

-Really? -Ailec then asked, giving him a long look of disbelief -. You're not even going to... try?

-Ailec... -began Raizac, sternly.

-No, father. If you intend for me to replace you someday, you should start by letting me speak -protested the younger bull, decisively, and then turned to the Human -. The truth is that... we expected more from you. Everyone has put their trust in the Human the legend spoke of. I thought you were not so easily frightened.

Raon was accused by those harsh words, but also perceived that the son of the caravan leader had spoken thus to provoke and incite him into not giving up. He would not fall into his trap.

-It's not my fault that people would have illusions without knowing me- he defended with an apologetic shrug of the shoulders -. You cannot trust someone you have never seen. Your Mother Kara should have thought about that.

Ailec watched him closely, with some suppressed rage.

-What then, let things continue as they are? -he asked, challenging -. Because, if there was only one thing I could do, I would fight to change the world.

-Then, you take my mission -Raon replied, undeterred -. You can do my work. Maybe Mother Kara was wrong, and you were one of the links, after all.

-Enough -Loki interrupted them with a rather tired voice -. Stop it, please. These things do not work like that, we are not settling anything with this discussion. Raon you not have to do anything if you don't want to -he clarified, managing a long look in which the Human could see a deep sadness.

-I disagree -Inoa intervened at that point, watching the Lynx with some incredulity -. Loki, they can't afford to abandon their mission! It's... absurd! It would throw out all the efforts that the Order has made in recent years!

-But you're right -Rukj intervened, with a low growl -. If Raon does not want to... nobody can force him to do so.

The Human bit his lower lip, feeling a rather guilty about the disappointment he perceived not only in Rukj's voice, but in the eyes of all those present. Still, he was not willing to give up, even though others thought differently, there was no chance that this mission could succeed. Why take the risk when knowing that all they would accomplish would be more deaths, more pain and more war, after all?

As he had told Loki, he was no more than a normal human. Maybe he was a good hunter, knew how to handle a spear and certain survival skills, but that did not make him automatically in the savior of all the Beasts and Humans. And even though he now knew he had a special bond with Jarek, that did not protect him from the death that all the Beasts intended to cause to the Humans.

That legend was destined to die, and Raon was not sure he wanted to die with it.

-Anyway, I am with Ailec -said Jarek, who had remained silent listening to the conversation -. I would risk it even if we did not succeed in changing anything. If there is a possibility... shouldn't we try?

Raon turned to him in surprise.

-You... want to?

-I would like to try at least, yes -Jarek replied, tilting his head -. I thought you wouldn't have any problem, especially considering that you're the one that wanted most to change our world. Or, at least... that was what I thought a few days ago.

Raon shook his head, somewhat annoying, but said nothing.

-Besides -continued the copper-furred wolf -, it is very easy to say that anyone could save the world and sit back and wait. But if no one tries it for the first time, there will never be anyone to try a second. And we will not advance one step, idly hoping to find someone to solve our problems.

-The wolf is quite right -Raizac nodded, giving him a look of approval.

-But we are nothing special, Jarek -Raon continued, with his voice tinged with some sadness for a moment -. Why us, exactly?

-Hmm... I would like to tell you something -Raon heard the soft voice then Loki, who at that time had raised his head and stared at him with claws closed around his leather bag -. When you are entrusted with a mission, you may feel scared and...

-I'm not scared -interrupted the Human, though his voice threatened to shake briefly.

-... you may feel scared... and wish that you had never agreed to carry it out -Loki continued, without taking his eyes of the youth -. And you think that you're not the one able do it, and that there is no chance of success. You might consider yourself less capable than any other Beast or Human to perform the task you've been given. But in the end, that's not important, you know?

Raon did not respond.

The lynx's voice seemed to be charged with some suppressed emotion, as if the subject of that talk also had something to do with him. The youth struggled to understand, but finally realized that Loki had also had his doubts about continuing with his mission... so he perfectly understood how he felt. His stubbornness in getting away from that impossible task was swayed and abruptly shaken by the words of the Order member.

For a moment, he thought of the possibility that he and the lynx were not so different after all... maybe he should try to talk to him after that conversation, on the subject that had been preoccupying his mind over the past few days...

-And what is important? -he asked hoarsely.

Loki smiled faintly.

-Certainly not how weak or intelligent that one may seem, or your age, or your skills -he said, and for a moment seemed almost reciting the old words of an acquaintance. Rukj, beside Raon, seemed to identify those words and could not repress a shudder -. What you need to do is, simply, move. Standing still and questioning whether or not one is able to solve their problems is useless. Someone... whom I don't remember with particular affection... gave me that advice not so long ago. And worst of all, he was right.

Raon took a few moments to say something, feeling the eyes of all those who attended that meeting in the middle of the night on his face. Beside him, Jarek decided to change roles and removed his paw from the Human's hands and squeezed one gently, trying to infuse some warmth. The Human at that precise moment realized that all those present expected a decision at that depended on him. Despite feeling the warmth of the soft Jarek's paws around his fingers, he could not help but feel scared.

He did not know what to do.

He had never felt so lost... for a moment, it was as if the ground beneath his feet, the sky overhead and everything that had ever surrounded him had changed abruptly. Just weeks ago, everything was so clear... although there had been questions he did not dare to ever ask, he was sure what to do, how to do it and when. He had a routine, something to hold on, and although he lived behind all that chaos that Rukj had protected him from for so long, everything seemed much clearer, much simpler and less painful.

How could things have changed so much in so little time?

-You can think about it for tonight and tell us your decision before we raise the camp tomorrow -advised Raizac at the time, realizing that he was having trouble finding an answer -. No need to worry about this, at least for now -and, with a somewhat less serious tone, the caravan leader said -. It's a night of celebration, damn it! And you are my guests of honor! So if you don't mind, I'd rather we be outside and enjoy the company of the rest of the caravan and the stars overhead. I bet it will be a great night.

Ailec said something in reply, but Raon was unable hear.

In the silence, and while everyone stood to leave, with all the words he had heard during the night still circling in his mind, he was trying to gather the courage to make a good decision.

The decision that he had unwittingly intended to make all along.

His mind turned away from all these thoughts when his hands felt a gentle squeeze and turned to Jarek, watching him with worried look.

-Are you okay? -he asked quietly, while those who had attended that meeting passed him on their way out.

-Yes -Raon responded with a whisper -. It is just... I do not like all this. I don't like being forced to do something I do not want to. Only I can decide what to do, right? And when Loki has talked about our mission... I had the feeling that I've never had the opportunity to choose.

Jarek understood and gave him a long look full of compassion.

-I was not born where I would have wanted -continued the youth, looking away -, nor have I been a normal human. I did not grow up next to my kind, nor with the Beasts. I've lived alone until now, with Rukj, and... -his voice was cut off, as if uncertain how to proceed. Finally, he shook his head -. I don't like to think that I've never been able to do what I really would like to do.

-And would you like to have some fun tonight? -Jarek asked, cocking his head and a smile hovering on his muzzle -. If you had the choice, would you choose to forget it all for now and become another someone else?

The question caught Raon by surprise.

-Of course -he replied, somewhat confused, not knowing where the wolf was going.

-Well then, get up, go outside and forget all about this conversation -the wolf encouraged, putting an arm around his waist and helping him up -. Tonight we can be what we want to be. Tomorrow we'll have time to return to reality, don't you think?

Raon gave him a long look with mingled curiosity and admiration, but said nothing. He was still surprised by the fact that, despite having had a past so dark and stained by so much death, the copper-furred wolf was still smiling and trying to get him to do the same. Did it not hurt to remember that his whole family had died in a fire because of one of his own, a Human? Didn't his heart break because he was alone in the world, rejected and abandoned as had also happened to Rukj, and himself? Sometimes Raon wondered how Jarek could continue to live as if nothing happened, dedicating a smile to each new dawn, when it was he who had suffered the most. Above all, knowing what he had learned that night.

He was fascinated. He managed to forget the pain and focus on what really mattered. He was able to rejoice and cheer to others only with a smile, or a word, or even with just gestures... sometimes Raon thought it was too wonderful to be true.

And, at that time, his own feelings forcefully returned inside, mingled with the pleasant feeling of affinity that existed between the two of them, with the warmth of his arm through his fur coat, and wondered how much of everything that he should appreciate was actually the connection Loki had spoken about.

-All right -he replied, after a moment, with a slight smile and trying to appease a few seconds of that unconditional admiration he felt towards Jarek -. But first... -he murmured, remembering something - ... I want talk to Loki. I have something important to ask him.

Jarek left him and crossed his arms, tilting his head and giving him a reproachful look.

-It has nothing to do with our supposed mission -the Human was quick to clarify, the wolf beginning to relax a bit -. It is something I have been meaning to ask someone for some time...

The reproach in Jarek's eyes became curious, but he asked no questions. Approaching Raon again and putting a paw on his back, he gently led him to the exit of the tent, returning one of those warm smiles that the youth marveled so much about.

-Well -replied the wolf, as if he could believe him -. I guess there is no problem with you talking to Loki. But hurry, okay? The feast without you will not be half as fun, I want to find out how you will react when you see everyone singing and laughing around you. Maybe it's too much for you!

-All right -Raon replied, almost laughing -. I'll try to hurry.

The two left the tent at the same time, more lively, and received the certain taste of the cool evening breeze that seemed to be starting to go all through the gorge. The night would be cold, of course. <<Jarek will have to give me warmth>> thought Raon, unable to avoid the idea pleased him.

Loki was not far away. He was standing next to all the others, who had made a circle and seemed to be talking about what would happen that night during the celebration. However, and as usual, the lynx did not seem very into the conversation, but rather listening and, occasionally, he looked away at the ground as if he felt ashamed.

Raon cocked his head, confused. All the confidence that Loki had when he had spoken of his mission seemed to have vanished as if it had never existed.

-Loki -he softly called. The lynx, however, turned to him -. I need to talk to you.

The whole group's conversation seemed to go quiet, as if the fact that the link in the Chain wanted to talk to the elected of the Order would mean something. Raon was able to understand that, for all present, it seemed clear that he would ask the lynx about their mission, and maybe that's why it was still difficult for him to approach the group, with Jarek beside him, and his paw still on his back.

-Oh, all right... -Loki answered him, not knowing exactly what to say -. In private?

-Yes -replied the Human, grateful that the lynx had realized that he had no special desire to talk with all those people he did not know -. Do you mind?

-No, of course not -Loki was quick to clarify, as he pulled away a bit of the group and approached Raon, with a question and a twinkle in his eye -. Come on, if you want.

Raon smiled and turned to Jarek, who watched the scene with some amusement.

-Remember not waste too much time - he reminded him, pretending some severity -, or I'll be mad.

-Okay, okay -Raon replied, his smile widening -. See you later.

After leaving the wolf, the Human and the lynx moved away from the group for a few minutes in silence. Raon would have liked have said something to break the awkward atmosphere that seemed to exist between the lynx and him, but could not think of anything. And Loki was not precisely the most talkative Beast he had the opportunity to meet.

-All right -muttered the youth once they came to a small lake that the camp could get water from -. Sorry I separated you from the rest of the group.

-Never mind -said Loki, smiling shyly -. It wasn't an important conversation and I wasn't paying much attention... also I am supposed to be open for you to ask me whatever you want. After all, this is still my mission.

Raon smiled in turn.

-I understand that it is difficult for you -said the lynx, giving him a reassuring look that meant to be calming -. It was for me, in its day. Just knowing that someone has placed many trusts in you can be... overwhelming.

-Yes... -replied Raon, figuring it was not wrong with the lynx. It seemed more difficult than he had first thought -. But I didn't want to talk to you about the mission.

-No? -Loki asked, somewhat surprised.

-No. It's... different. About the link between Jarek and me.

Loki shook his head, not understanding at all what the Human could refer to while Raon futilely sought the words to ask his question. For a moment, it seemed infinitely difficult to convert into words all the thoughts that had flooded his mind in recent days, as if between them and reality was a padlocked door that he dared not open.

-Well? -asked the Lynx, after a long silence -. What is it?

Raon still remained a few moments in silence, fighting against himself to break that lock that prevented him speak as he would have liked.

-Well... -he began, with a slight tremor in his voice -. I would like to know... to what extent the link spoke of bonds us together. What exactly did your Mother Kara do to us?

Loki received the question with some surprise, and looked away toward the lake, not knowing exactly what to say.

-The truth is that I am not very sure -he admitted, finally -, but it is a simple empathic connection. I mean ... you have to feel it better than me. We've all noticed, actually, but you should know better than anyone how that connection feels, right?

-I should -Raon replied, sighing, as he raised a hand to his hair and pulled it away from his forehead, somewhat uncomfortable.

-Its role is to ensure that you and Jarek understand each other -Loki continued, but did not feel very sure -. There are many Beasts that would have killed any Humans who were found in any situation, and vice versa. The link is there to prevent that from happening. I guess you could not hurt him even if you wanted to -he paused -. But it's something that I'm not sure of... Why do you ask me?

Raon hesitated.

-I wanted to know what limits it has -he answered finally shifting from one leg to another.

-Limits?

-Yes. It's something I've been wondering about... these last days. Even without knowing that there was a link.

Loki gave him a curious look increasingly feeling more and more confused by the words of the Human.

-Well -murmured the lynx -. I may be wrong. How exactly do you feel the link?

Raon sighed nervously. He put his hand to the dagger from his belt and began to stroke the knob gently, trying to calm down a bit, but his fingers kept trembling, unfortunately for him. All these signs of nervousness did not go unnoticed by Loki, who continued to observe the Human with a mixture of interest, concern and puzzlement.

-Sometimes... -Raon started, taking a deep breath -... especially lately, the link has become stronger. I do not know how to explain it. When we touch, we can notice that link perfectly, as if each of us were the other for a few perfect seconds. I even... I am even able to feel the warmth of his body, his heart and blood in his veins. And along with that, there's more... It is even stranger, less perceptible -he paused -. As if, at that moment, I could not turn away from him anymore. Sometimes, I wish... we would continue touching and not let this feeling to go away ever. Continue with him, no matter what happens...

Raon stopped, his heart pounding in his chest. Beside him, Loki watched him, his head still cocked and half-open mouth, while his eyes seemed to show a brightness and a deep understanding.

-And I admire him so much -continued the Human, who could not help blushing -. He's so... fascinating. At first I thought he was a weak wolf, and someone useless, it did not matter that he was with me; after all he was the first company, except for Rukj, I had had in my entire life. But then... and especially tonight, I realized that he is much stronger than he seems. He alone can overcome this situation without going crazy, while I am overwhelmed... and also when I'm at his side, I feel stronger, too. As if to fight on his side and he was worthwhile. He causes all that, although I do not know if he knows it. Makes me not want to give up. Oh, shit... -he muttered, putting his hand to his forehead and giving his back to the lynx, terribly embarrassed -. I admire him so much that sometimes I wonder if I'm not exaggerating when speaking about him.

A long silence followed these words.

Raon, regaining some composure, began to regret having talked so much and, above all having done so with the lynx, that he barely knew for a couple of days. He knew he could trust him because Rukj had done so and because in the few days that he had knew the lynx he had learned to appreciate him too. But, on the other hand... he did not know to what extent Loki would understand him, or whether it would have been better to tell that to Rukj.

Finally, the lynx broke the silence with an answer.

-That's not the link, Raon.

Raon gasped. That was the possibility that more weight had come to take his mind, but also the one he had come to dread more.

-And what then...? -he asked, in a whisper.

Loki smiled with understanding.

-That's love -he replied, glancing at the lake.

-Love? -Raon repeated, with a quiver in his voice, as if he were venturing into unknown territory -. Rukj never told me about that.

The Human doubted that the kind of love Rukj had told him about had something to do with what he felt at that time Jarek. When the wolf was asked about how they were born Beasts and Humans, his response was quite different from what Loki seemed to mention.

-Surely, Rukj had more important things to talk about -said the lynx, trying to defend the black wolf, but feeling a twinge of sadness, much to his dismay -. Moreover, it's not something you can easily talk about. No definition. It is something that everyone experiences in their own way.

-I thought... I thought that something like this should only occur between males and females -Raon muttered, turning back to Loki, with an apologetic look.

The lynx had to contain his urge to laugh at hearing that, but finally managed to calm down and show only an amused smile. <<Males and females ... >> repeated in his head, unable not to notice the innocence and ignorance that Raon moved him by this conversation.

-Why? -he asked, cocking her head -. Like I said, it's own. And it is not unusual thqt q male feels... attracted to other males.

-I suppose -the Human muttered, not knowing what else to answer -. And... what should I do?

Loki could not help this time and let out a funny laugh.

-What should you do? Well... you could continue mulling it over, or you could tell him as soon as you get the chance. He might also feel the same -he happened to respond. Actually, he was very aware that what Raon had just asked was one of the most complicated questions of the night -. It is up to you. You have to make another decision, I'm afraid.

Raon looked at him thoughtfully for a while, and said nothing. Then he turned to the lake and stared out at it for a few minutes that seemed like hours.

Although he had been waiting for the answer that Loki had given him, was a relief to know that he was wrong and that, contrary to what he had originally thought, there was no shame in what he felt. Moreover, it was strange to have discussed this with the lynx, but could not deny that he had been very helpful... at the time, and acknowledged his presence there as if it were a blessing. He did not even know if Rukj could take it so calmly and respond so naturally.

-Thank you -he said to Loki, from the heart, turning to him -. I had my doubts, but I'm glad you managed to help me.

-My pleasure -said the other, shrugging -. And I feel privileged because you trusted me enough to ask me something like this. Really.

-Now I just need the courage to tell Jarek... -the Human ended, shifting his gaze to the lake.

Loki was watching him for a moment, thoughtful, and for a few seconds the situation of the Human reminded him of his own and he almost had the feeling that both were at the same crossroads.

-That would show that you are very brave -he said softly, making the youth turn toward him, with true gratitude in his eyes.

The two were looking for a few minutes, each a reflection in the eyes of the other. It almost seemed as if, with that look, again both were keeping silent conversation in a language that only the two of them were able to understand. Finally, Loki broke the monotony of time muttering.

-And I hope you are in luck. Your love deserves to be reciprocated.

Raon smiled back, feeling again and blushing slightly.

-Thank you -he replied, feeling uncomfortable, not knowing why.

Loki gave him a brief glance and without being about to contain himself, advanced a couple of steps to embrace the Human gently, touched by the simple fact of him so full of nervousness and excitement. Raon, as soon as he noticed the lynx as hugging him, did not know how to react, and had to suppress a shudder before realizing that, after all, a friendly hug was not so bad.

Loki, noticed he was so rigid in his arms, he could not help thinking that it was rather sad that, so far, the Human had never enjoyed a hug.

-Well -said the lynx, once they had separated -. Wasn't Jarek waiting for you in the camp? I wouldn't make him wait.

-You're right -Raon recalled, somewhat concerned -. So, I'm leaving. I'm glad I could talk about this with you, Loki.

-And I'm glad you did -said the lynx, smiling -. Come on, hurry up or I believe you have broken your promise.

The Human smiled one last time and left him with a gesture, before turning briskly towards the camp. Loki watched him go, happy to have had the opportunity to learn from that and moved by the sentiments of the Human. The truth was that, for a moment, the similarity between the situation that both were happening at that time had made him feel that something changed.

But on the other hand, Raon was so young... and he knew so little of love that was almost funny to see him ask about it with that mixture of curiosity, fear and innocence that only a child entering adolescence could show. His case was odd, since he grew up with only Rukj and had no window to the outside world, there were many questions that no one had ever answered. It was normal to feel lost on those issues, especially if he had never received explanations about them.

The lynx let a sigh escape and turned to the lake, his blue eyes staring thoughtfully at the surface. His mind could not help but return to the time when he had given his advice to Raon, when he was asked what he should do. He was not sure if he was completely sincere in saying that he could share that with Jarek without giving it greater importance; Loki was going through something similar, and knew that the reality was infinitely more complex. If he had to tell Rukj his feelings for him... he would not have known where to start.

Although, on the other hand... if he thought about it, it made a lot of sense. In fact, there were several reasons why, all that day he had been thinking trying to discover about his feelings about the black wolf, but he was not able to find the strength to be honest with him and tell him all that was on his mind. Still, while the wolf spoke to Raizac and he listened to the conversation without much interest, he had been hanging around... and there were several reasons why he would have been willing to take the risk.

First, its unwritten contract with Kara's Cubs Order, which prevented him from lying. He was afraid that at any time, Rukj would ask something about it and he would not able to lie and get out of the situation without screwing up. And it wasn't just that, he did not like the idea of not be being completely honest with the wolf that had saved his life, even if it was... such a difficult subject to treat. He would not feel completely grateful to him until he told him what he really felt for him.

On the other hand... that night could be the best time to tell him. After so much time running and fighting to stay alive, having escaped the clutches of Ronod... only now they had a respite, a quiet moment, where he could try to forget what had happened if only for a few hours. If he wanted to tell him, it had to be that night. There was no other option.

And finally, there was the fact that the conversation he had with Raon somehow forced him to try to confess his feelings to the wolf. Knowing he was not alone in that, and more importantly, that the advise he had given to Raon he had not yet acted on, he was thinking that it might be time to admit his feelings and end with that. Or, ideally... start with something.

Also, he wanted to be with Rukj so much that the mere possibility that he might prevail with his feelings made him impatient to speak to him. With a little luck, maybe this was the last night he dreamed of the black wolf, and dreams changed into reality...

He shook his head, somewhat embarrassed.

Yes, he definitely had to talk about that with Rukj. He did not know how to start the conversation or how he would react, but he expected in his heart that luck will smile. He would know what words he must say in the moment he had to say them.

Pressing firmly against the tourmaline pendant hanging from his neck, the lynx turned his back to the lake and started toward the camp, knowing that although the Human was not sure of it yet, he had already made his decision.