The last she had ever heard Cyrus speak of Aelia, he had been shy, almost regretful and ashamed in the way he felt toward her - and then Valeska had heard precious little since, simply assuming the crush had fizzled out or nothing came of it in the end. Either way, the golden Daystar was the most free-spirited of her children and often went where her whims took her, and all Valeska could do was offer wise counsel (possibly against deaf ears) and try to be a place of shelter and protection should the girl ever have need of it.

Narcissa's disappearance had been a hard lesson in letting go - she would never know what happened to her, and the loss had been a blow she still struggled to come back from.

Valeska puzzled over his statement. Unfinished business? The wolf had always been quite stoic, steadfast in his ways and never stirring up trouble; she couldn't imagine what loose ends he may have had to tie up, given his peaceful nature. She wanted to ask.

She was nosy.

She asked.

What sort of unfinished business? she inquired, golden eyes piercing like arrows through the darkness between them. It was simply the way she looked at others, but it was often very unnerving - Valeska was many things, and above all, direct. A gentle smile softened her features.

I also feel as if I am abandoning this place, she said. Her throat burned, and she stifled a cough. But - it is not worth the lives of our packmates to stay from stubborn foolishness. Hrrraaacckkkk. Already we have lost... Nemean and Fleetwood...

Her voice trailed off into a hoarse whisper full of pain and regret.

Even I am killing myself in - hack - stupidity, she continued. But you sound as if you are preparing to leave us forever. It is - hrrraack - your choice, but I must ask... why?

Shifting her weight, Valeska turned her body to better face him; it wasn't quite confrontational, but he might have a hard time leaving the conversation if he tried. Cyrus was easily several times her size, but she had lived six and a half years through sheer force of will, and Houtu help the man should that will be turned against him.

And through it all, a kind smile coursed her lips.
Never malicious; just sincere, and perhaps a little stupid.

You do not have to tell me if you do not wish to.

She wielded her inquisitive nature like a sharpened blade.