Redhawk Caldera Two large gulps of free-range oxygen

He really wasn't sure how Osprey would feel about the news of Fox's pregnancy, yet she seemed genuinely happy for him. Peregrine accepted her congratulations with a smile and thump of his tail, though he wouldn't say anything more on the subject and he wouldn't unless she asked specifically.

When she shared the news of Blue Willow's litter, he felt a mix of emotions. He dearly missed her and Lasher. He was sad that he would probably never meet their pups. He also felt a tiny stab of jealousy at the life they'd built, though it faded quickly. He would always love Lasher, yet he felt he'd moved past their breakup and all the lost potential there. And Blue Willow most definitely deserved those babies.

"That's great news," he said, resisting the urge to ask for names. "I'm happy they're happy," he added genuinely. He had no doubts that they were already rocking at the whole joint parenthood thing, even without romantic connection tying them together.

Peregrine wondered what he ought to say beyond that, though luckily his sister saved him the trouble by mentioning an involuntary absence from the plateau. Before he could ask for details, she mentioned that Saena had subsequently ostracized her. She mentioned a club and his heart sank. He was probably founder and president of it.

He didn't know what to say, though he took a deep breath and tried not to look as dismayed as he felt. "I'm sorry, Oss. That's my fault." He had hoped that the wounds would heal in time but here was evidence that they were still raw, fresh and angry. "I'm sorry," he repeated.