Blacktail Deer Plateau Professional griefers

Atticus knew there was undeniable truth to Peregrine's words. As the parent, he did bear more of the responsibility for their safety and well-being than anyone else might, but that didn't excuse the rest of them. Puppies were the future of the pack, and it was the pack's job to support the parents and ensure the pups remained safe and healthy. Peregrine wasn't the only one who'd failed. They'd all failed.

Peregrine came closer and buried his face in the thick fur of Atticus's neck. The Beta closed his eyes, his heart tearing a little bit more at the grief and pain his brother was going through. It was bad enough for him as their uncle; he couldn't imagine if they were his own children. He turned his face so his muzzle rested beside Perry's ear, encircling his younger brother's head in a small embrace, and said nothing for several moments. Perry's questions were valid, but Atticus didn't believe Junior was anywhere in the plateau's lands. They'd all searched high and low for her, and she was nowhere to be found. "We'll find her," he finally said, his voice soft. He wasn't sure he believed himself, but a part of him had to believe it. She had to be out there somewhere. "I won't stop until we do. You know I won't."