Redtail Rise Ashes, ashes, we all fall down

He rarely allowed himself to cry. Typically, he found it easiest to break when he was alone. With Tavi away at the Maplewood and no one around to recruit, Reek no longer had to hide his emotions away. Like tar, they bubbled to the surface. More tears began to fall as he sniffled silently amidst a field of black. Tiny droplets fell against the charred remains of what was once his home, as he thought only of the marriage and the bridges he had left burnt and broken, much like his bleak surroundings.

A whine caught Reek's attention. With one final sniffle, Reek fell silent and still. He craned his neck, catching a stranger with the corner of his eye. "I'm fine," he returned weakly, knowing full and well the other wolf would know it was a lie. "I just need a moment."