Blackfoot Forest Desolation

Each day was a new battle for Samuel. Each day he could feel his chest swell with pain and bleed with tears at night. Each day his paws grew heavy. Each day he felt lost.

but he had to stay strong. For her. For Liri. She was the reason he was still here, for her.

he saw his beautiful mate, near a quiet stream. Her muzzle looked damp from fresh tears. Sam felt his heart lurch as he made his way over.

he made his way close to her, giving off a small whine. Why was she crying? Why was she hurting? He plopped next to her, offering her a small nudge on the shoulder with his nose.

"are you alright?"