the events of the past several days told augur something he had not considered for a long time: the rise would need new blood.

those who could carry on the natal redtail lineage were all related, including the huntlead who might very well be the father of the yearlings, save skin tooth and wolverine.

the latter continued to search. thorn caller and new snow tended the pups.

augur went out this day to recruit, in preservation of future numbers and red woman herself. he looked for blacktail in his far range, but sensed that the man had gone even further to find her.

perhaps he would not come back.

augur let out a long call, announcing his status as powerful pack wolf ready to test those lone hunters who might think of a time beyond summer bounty and wish a home before winter began.