Duskfire Glacier What we aint got

skipping asphodel since she's fallen inactive.

She heard the whimpers and felt the heaving in his chest. Oh, Rye. She hugged him harder, until finally both of them were ready to let go. 

The little joke did its magic, lightening he mood just enough for what had to come next. 

Heaviness resumed its place upon Lane's features. "Rye.. they haven't come back," Lane reported, voice full of sympathy. Obviously Rye hadn't found Imaq and Sikuliak either. Lane hovered, ready to come in with another hug if he seemed to need one. 

"There's more bad news, I'm afraid," she would tell him in a soft voice. She would wait until he indicated he was ready before she put any more upon him. 

The rain fell harder, slowly soaking through Lane's topcoat. Belatedly remembering the other woman, Lane glanced toward her, but found that she had gone. Probably off to seek shelter from not only the storm, but also the intense pain emanating from the grieving pair.