The Sentinels die cast memories strewn aside

"I have not actually counted," Apple shrugged. Her last litter had been born mid-winter and they had been boisterous teenagers that had outgrown their dear mom in size twice, when she had left to see the world. Some point during summer, most likely, because prey had been easy to come by and she had retained her wel-fed and cared for looks up until now. 

"But I realize that I will have to settle with some pack for winter, 'cause I am not ready to kick the bucket yet," she added, though it was evident that she was not really looking forward to it. She did not wish to have her wings clipped just yet, though the harsh reality was that, if she did not, she would not survive the winter. 

"What about you? What do you plan to do?"