Emberwood if he's a king, he's a priest and god too

today, she leaves the confines of Bearclaw on assignment from Merrick, who calls from afar.

strange pair, she thinks upon meeting her father's summons. she would expect to be called alongside her mother or brother, especially if it is an expedition that requires physical skill. instead, it is the singer, the soft boy, Ashlar, who is to be her partner today. she gives him a nod, then looks to her father.

and then looks beyond him, nostrils flaring at the acrid stench of. . .oh, what is that? it reeks like fox, but not quite; it's different.

different and recent, too. a threat not too far from the valley. foxes are thieves; they take from caches for themselves and their own young, and that will not do. the weather is getting warmer, but winter still clings to the land. prey is still hidden away within their burrows. food is scarce.

Avicus returns her gaze to Merrick, silently anticipating his next command while ever-conscious of the presence of Ashlar alongside her.