Sheepeater Cliff The dark of summer

Teklar pointed out a valid concern, one both she and Ariston had considered. "We expect the herd may eventually move on entirely," she replied, "but, until then, we intend to take advantage of the situation. If and when they do go, we'll still have plenty of game close at hand. Like I said, this place is bountiful. Have you been by the lake yet?" she queried. The lake was like the park's heart, appropriately off-center and the source of all life in this stretch of wilderness. "Prey practically swarms there."

He mentioned a father, one who'd taught him the values of being a primal beast. Koontz nodded slowly. "It sounds like you'd make a good guardian," she remarked, tail swaying contemplatively. She paused, then said, "Well, I'll make my offer official: you would be welcome in the Dragonwatchers. In exchange for your loyalty and skills, we'd give you the abundant life of a pack wolf.

But don't feel obligated to give me an answer now," she continued after another silent beat. "I know these kinds of things need consideration. Also, you should see the territory first. I'll be heading back that way soon and you're welcome to join me if you're free." Her lips twitched. What else would he, a lone wolf, be doing but rambling? "First, though, I'd like to check out this cliff. I saw a mountain goat a few minutes ago and I'm wondering if there's more up there... you know, in case I need a back-up food source when my deer herd smartens up and leaves," she finished, a smile touching her pale eyes.