Blacktail Deer Plateau the ghosts were howlin' in the late afternoon

fire brought forth new life when it burned, but it also destroyed.

osprey had not been found once the blaze had died, and dante had sought her tracks. the ecru man picked his way across the charred swale to join malachi and mordecai. his eyes were heavy with weariness, but he offered them both a nod of acknowledgment and respect. he did not believe dante had died, but the pack would look to himself and to blue willow for guidance.

murkwater eyes turned toward the ash-fall and he sighed. paws began to carry him toward the swathe of burned earth; he would fall to search for osprey soon.