Phoenix Maplewood What a beautiful world

Her eyes lit with joy and Reek could see clearly how happy she was to go. If he could bring the child just a shred of happieness in this sad time, he had done his job. Reek tried to smile back; the corners of his mouth twisted upward in an uncomfortable smirk. The childlike innocence and optimism of her's were meant to be protected, but Reek couldn't shelter her from the world forever. It was up to Desna alone to gaurd herself from cynicism. But, the world wouldn't make her bitter in the ways it turned and twisted Reek, he could see it written upon her face— She would keep her high spirits.

Reek accepted her gratitude without a word, and when she finally pulled away, his smile carried a level of warmth that he hadn't expressed since Scarlett had passed. The familiar feeling was brief. His face soon went slack and his expression became tired once more.

Her trades were progressing well. Desna had been the only child to properly pull her own weight in the Maplewood, and Reek felt she would always have a place among them as family. "I'd love to Des. Show me what you've got." He motioned forward with his muzzle and waited for Desna to take the lead. It was her hunt after all.