Blackfeather Woods discontent

he feels it all around, in the bones of the wood, the stillness of the canopy, the whispered oaths and curses. the wood is unsettled, and by extension so is he. he wanders, unseen and unheard, visiting once a day the great ravine and standing for long periods at a time at its edge, utterly still. he has taken Maegi's word and so must suffer this discontent until she acts, or a length of time in which she does not. the gods of his people mean little to him, but the breath and life of the wood itself is tangible and real and touched now with corruption. sinner, whispers the land all around, and he stalks it with wilting patience.

She knew she would cross paths with the shadow eventually, although in truth, she had been avoiding him. But she spotted him close by and knew that her pale pelt was clearly visible within the trees; she gave a chuff, padding toward him, her chin lifted in greeting. He was dark and silent as the crows he so dearly loved. What was his story? What was theirs?

Abraxas, Maegi said, meeting his gaze. I was wondering when I'd see you again. How are you? Somehow, she didn't think him much the type for small talk, but she began with it, nonetheless. A nice distraction from the real issue at hand—and Maegi was nothing but appreciative of distractions.