Ouroboros Spine Looms but the Horror of the shade,

Kodiak reached his leader, and the two continued the ascent. He breathed quietly, drawing in her scent as he trailed behind. He was purposefully trying to detect the scent of males upon her, for he wanted to know if any coveted her the way he coveted her, if any had been making a move. But although he could smell Iqniq and several other packmates, there was no concentration of scent that would concern him. In fact, aside from Iqniq, the brown bear had not met any other males, although he was aware of them by scent. Their paths had simply not crossed.

In time, Alpha and subordinate neared the top, and the scent of water started to seep into his nose. As they crested the top, they were greeted by a sprawling pond, one that seemed out of place and yet belonged all at once. Kodiak paused to scan the area, head turning slowly, fiery eyes attentive to the details before him.